Hud

Starring: Paul Newman, Melvyn Douglas, Patricia Neal, Brandon Wilde
Directed by: Martin Ritt
Rating: Not rated
Genre: Drama, Western
1963

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: On a small ranch, Hud (Paul Newman) is quite used to looking out for himself, even as his father (Melvyn Douglas) hits incredibly rough times.

Review:

Tim: Usually wehn I see a movie, I know exactly how I feel about it. With Hud, I am still grasping for exactly what I think. The movie is not what I expected.

First let me start with Paul Newman. I love watching great actors just exploding on screen with their acting ability. Newman just destroys the performance (and I mean that in a good way). This is just such a juicy part and he captures the very essence of this character on screen.

The story, based on the novel by the fantastic Larry McMurtry follows Hud as he comes into conflict with everything around him- his ethical and good father, his idealistic nephew, and his warmhearted family cook. This clash drives the entire film and makes it so fascinating to watch.

I do have a few problems with the film. I like the whole mad cow disease subplot (I didn't know that was around in the 60s), but I think it could have been handled a bit more neatly. The end of the film was a bit sudden and I felt like not enough was resolved.

This is a gritty and realistic look at a cowboy who loves drinking, womanizing, and fighting, much to the chagrin of those around him. The movie probes into some powerful and uncomfortable places. I definitely recommend seeing it for Newman's spectacular antihero performance.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 7



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