Der Clou

A wonderful retro feel-good film that benefits from a strong cast and a believable portrayal of 1930s America. The central musical theme has become a classic, but honestly, overall, it doesn't deserve its seven Oscars. (13.04.2003)

Perhaps the film's screenplay is a bit too focused on creating an impact, and everything fits together so neatly that it gives the impression of being contrived. However, the charming directorial presentation makes this film irresistibly alluring, and not humming the title song even a day after watching it would be almost sinful. The duo of Newman and Redford shines, and without them, the film wouldn't even be a quarter of what it is. Every smile or line they deliver instantly etches itself into memory, and perhaps it would be enough for the film if those two just sat opposite each other and looked at each other. Despite the fact that at times, the pace could use a little more push, and in some places, the sharp edges of the "effect" could be refined, it still remains the most elegantly crafted "con film" ever to grace the silver screen, with minimal flaws and no major criticisms. (02.12.2005)

Overpopulated. While at least half of the characters are absolutely superfluous. They think they’re clever. But you can read them like a book at first glance. A star-studded cast. But Redford has no part to act and next to Newman and Shaw he clearly can’t keep up. Theatrical, obviously studio set, with errors of logic and who knows what else. And despite all of that, it’s entertaining with stylish ease that we don’t see much of today. Simply an Oscar-winning romp by a group of friends for the hell of it. (14.10.2008)

The precursor of all overly complicated thieving spectacles that don't stand a chance compared to "The Sting". Thanks to the sparks in the eyes of Redford and Newman, we are left with only one question that is already answered in advance - was the feeling of satisfaction ever this great? (23.11.2005)

I don't tend to return to projects that I have rated with fewer than 4 stars. However, those with more stars are worth watching again, and as I observed a long time ago, approximately after ten years it is also suitable to rewatch a film because with increasing age we perceive some things differently. Usually, my memories deceive me and I end up giving them a worse review, but in the case of The Sting, even after a third viewing, I didn't have to change the smallest thing about my high opinion. The Sting is an elegant film, it has charm and style, and it's simply a pleasant positive ride that would work even if any other quality actors had been cast instead of Newman and Redford. It relies on an excellent script, a great retro atmosphere, and perfect filmmaking. Only in a minimum number of films can you trace such precise work by individual filmmakers' professions. I watch and admire the great camerawork, the musical motif, the fantastic casting even for the smallest roles, the work of the architect, and the great direction. This is simply a tribute to the art of cinema in its purest form. All those Ocean's Eleven films and countless variations of the same can get lost. Overall impression: 95%. (08.03.2018)

Ja, ich weiß, dass es ein völlig anderes Genre ist und dass die Filme außer den Schauspielern und dem Regisseur nichts anderes verbindet, aber Zwei Banditen hat mir einfach besser gefallen. Der Clou ist ein guter Film, das leugne ich nicht. Er hätte mich aber noch mehr beeindruckt, wenn ich den Trick am Ende nicht gleich am Anfang erraten hätte. Ich war also nicht besonders überrascht… (05.07.2009)

The superb chemistry of Redford and Newman + an excellent script have secured this crime comedy the status of an undying legend. The plot is completely unpredictable, the atmosphere of the mafia-dominated 1930s is also brilliant, while the natural detachment and personality of the actors only makes the whole viewing experience more enjoyable. You'd be hard pressed to find another film with such an unobtrusive and sensitive fusion of the comedy and crime genres as The Sting. (30.03.2012)

In the end, I actually enjoyed it even more than "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid", but even in this case, I didn't have the experience I was expecting. The second half of the movie was great, but the first half was just introductory, welcoming, and acquainting, simply obligatory, so that something finally happened and we could relate to these characters. (31.08.2015)