By now, Paul Newman has been memorialized countless ways on as many different mediums--as he should be. Allow me. Paul Newman was many things. A racer, a philanthropist, a civil rights activist, a businessman, and a movie star.
For me, Paul Newman is a cinematic ICON. Though his piercing blue eyes {that seems to be the main theme of many reports} and strong jaw were maybe the first things you noticed, it was his craft that made you come back for more. Also the down-on-his-luck, the anti-hero, Newman owned each, perfectly nuanced role.
Top five lists are always up for debate. Feel free to share your thoughts, but here are my Top Five Paul Newman films:
- Cool Hand Luke (1967): You can find on review here. Newman leads a powerhouse cast, but his Luke just oozes this nonchalance that's riveting.
- Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1961): One of the best buddy films you'll ever see. Redford and Newman has a chemistry that's just cool.
- The Hustler (1961): Have you seen it?! Alright then.
- Road to Perdition (2002) Sure, Tom Hanks is the lead, but when you share the screen with Newman, you can become the footnote. His supporting turn as a mob boss is eloquent. This movie actually rekindled by exploration of Newman's filmography.
- Hud (1963): Newman slow burns in this B&W. Self destruction never looked this good.
Paul Newman was 83.
1 comment:
Well said. I heard on one of those many memorials that he didn't sign autographs and that he was always annoyed when people asked to see those blue eyes, too. Sounds kinda like Sir Alec--he didn't think he role as Obi-Wan was all that memorable. He kinda hated it.
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