Featured, Movie Reviews

‘Hustlers’ Review – Exciting and Enthralling

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Synopsis:

Inspired by the viral New York Magazine article, Hustlers follows a crew of savvy former strip club employees who band together to turn the tables on their Wall Street clients.

Have you ever wondered what a female Robin Hood movie would be like? Well, keep looking but this story isn’t far off. Hustlers is an exciting and enthralling story based on true events from a New York Magazine article written by Jessica Pressler. Not only is it a come-up story but it’s almost like watching a gangster movie. To me, it felt like watching Paid In Full, if we can’t get the money we want legally, then illegally it is. Everyone loves a story where the little guy takes on the big guy and wins. Well, unless you’re the big guy. Unfortunately, power often corrupts those who were once powerless and money is power. The film, written and directed by Lorene Scafaria also takes you into a world and an industry that was also hit hard by the recession and is not often talked about seriously. Whether viewed good or evil, the film humanizes those who some in society write off because they live a lifestyle that they do not agree with. At the end of the day, we’re all trying to take care of someone even if that someone is simply ourselves. Filled with beautiful women, scamming, comedy, and drama Hustlers is a ride I’d go on again. I wouldn’t drink anything though… you’ll understand that after the film.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”29475″ img_size=”800×450″ alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]Plot & Pace

I love the way the movie faded in, it gives you an immediate view into the world of an exotic dancer. It’s filled with loud music, pretty and competitive women, lots of money, and a new girl that has no idea what she has gotten herself into. Let me not forget that there are also a bunch of horny men ready to spend their 401ks trying to impress women that have seen it all. The movie moves at a pretty steady pace with scenes that will have guys glued and ladies cheering. It’s filled with themes of friendship and family that one might not expect initially. At times it felt like I was watching Ocean’s 8, whether you view that as a negative is up to you but I didn’t hate it. I did think that it got a little redundant towards the middle. We understand what they’re doing, now get to the point. However, the comedic moments within those scenes kept it fresh and entertaining. The story can be seen in different ways depending on which main character you choose to focus on. On one hand, it could be watched as a story of vengeance and on the other, it can be viewed as a story of hurt people hurt people. Everyone has something they want in life, some just want it more and will do anything to get it. Either way, it makes for an enjoyable experience. Afterward, you ask yourself, “who do I feel sorry for in the end?”

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Characters & Chemistry

Yes, Cardi B is amazing and hilarious in her role. I know you wanted to know that first. The chemistry is off the charts in this film. It felt as if they were all actually the best of friends for years. Jennifer Lopez as Romona explodes with exuberance and all that come in contact with her fall for her charm. Her natural feminine prowess as well as her background in hip hop dancing definitely shined through. Constance Wu as Destiny was who I focused on. Her struggles and dependence morphed into a drama that intrigued me. Lili Reinhart (Annabelle) and Keke Palmer (Mercedes) were comic relief. While funny, they still had a backstory and goals of their own and played a pivotal role in plotting. The cast brought this unbelievable story to life effortlessly. Are awards in the future for this film?

I’d go see it again.

Hustlers releases in theaters everywhere on September 13th, enjoy.