The Color of Money vs. The Hustler

Attribute	The Color of Money	The Hustler
Release Year	1986	1961
Director	Martin Scorsese	Robert Rossen
Main Character	Eddie Felson (played by Paul Newman)	Eddie Felson (played by Paul Newman)
Setting	Contemporary America	1950s America
Plot	Follows Eddie Felson as he mentors a young pool player	Follows Eddie Felson as he challenges the reigning pool champion

Plot

The Color of Money, directed by Martin Scorsese, is a sequel to the 1961 film The Hustler. The film follows the story of Fast Eddie Felson, played by Paul Newman, who mentors a young pool hustler named Vincent, played by Tom Cruise. The plot revolves around their journey through the world of high-stakes pool hustling. On the other hand, The Hustler focuses on Fast Eddie's earlier days as a pool hustler, where he challenges the legendary Minnesota Fats, played by Jackie Gleason. The film explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and redemption.

Character Development

In The Color of Money, Fast Eddie Felson is portrayed as a seasoned hustler who is trying to make a comeback in the world of pool. Throughout the film, he struggles with his own demons and tries to impart his wisdom to Vincent. Vincent, on the other hand, is a brash and talented young hustler who is eager to prove himself. In contrast, The Hustler delves deeper into Fast Eddie's character, showcasing his arrogance and ambition as he navigates the cutthroat world of pool hustling. The film also introduces the character of Sarah, played by Piper Laurie, who becomes Fast Eddie's love interest and adds a layer of complexity to the story.

Visual Style

Both The Color of Money and The Hustler feature stunning cinematography that captures the intensity of the pool games and the characters' emotions. The Color of Money, being a more recent film, benefits from modern filmmaking techniques that enhance the visual experience. The use of lighting and camera angles in both films adds to the tension and drama of the pool games. The Hustler, shot in black and white, has a classic and timeless feel that complements the gritty atmosphere of the story.

Soundtrack

The Color of Money features a dynamic soundtrack that includes a mix of classic rock and blues music. The music adds energy to the pool games and heightens the emotional moments in the film. In contrast, The Hustler relies more on a traditional score that complements the film's dramatic tone. The music in both films plays a crucial role in setting the mood and enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Themes

Both The Color of Money and The Hustler explore themes of ambition, competition, and the pursuit of excellence. Fast Eddie Felson's journey in both films is marked by his desire to be the best in the world of pool hustling. The films also delve into the darker side of ambition, showing how it can lead to betrayal and loss. The theme of redemption is also prevalent in both films, as Fast Eddie seeks to find meaning and purpose in his life through the game of pool.

Legacy

The Color of Money and The Hustler are both considered classics in the world of cinema. The Hustler, in particular, is often cited as one of the greatest sports films ever made. The film's impact can be seen in its influence on subsequent films about pool hustling and its enduring popularity among audiences. The Color of Money, while not as revered as its predecessor, is still praised for its performances and direction. Both films have left a lasting legacy in the world of cinema and continue to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.