The Hustler (1961)
Kernel Score: 86% · 1,056 ratings · Rated NR
Genres: Drama, Romance
Released: 1961-09-25
Runtime: 134 minutes
Where to watch The Hustler
- Stream: FlixFling
- Free with ads: Plex
- Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
- Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
US availability, updated 2026-10-23.
Overview
Fast Eddie Felson is a small-time pool hustler with a lot of talent but a self-destructive attitude. His bravado causes him to challenge the legendary Minnesota Fats to a high-stakes match.
The Hustler parents' guide: ages 11+
Parents need to know that The Hustler is a classic drama about a pool hustler whose self-destructive gambling and drinking lead to tragedy.
- Violence & scariness: A little — Includes a suicide plot element and tense confrontations tied to gambling culture.
- Drinking, drugs & smoking: Moderate — Heavy drinking and drunkenness are central to the story of self-destructive behavior.
Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official NR rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.
Movies like The Hustler
If you liked The Hustler, these are the movies we'd watch next.
- The Swimmer (1968) — 80%
- The Man with the Golden Arm (1955) — 79%
- The Great Gatsby (2013) — 84%
- Written on the Wind (1956) — 74%
- The Prestige (2006) — 95%
- Scarlet Street (1945) — 84%
- The Cincinnati Kid (1965) — 76%
- Rumble Fish (1983) — 77%
Director
Cast
- Paul Newman as Eddie Felson
- Jackie Gleason as Minnesota Fats
- Piper Laurie as Sarah Packard
- George C. Scott as Bert Gordon
- Myron McCormick as Charlie Burns
- Murray Hamilton as Findley
- Michael Constantine as Big John
- Stefan Gierasch as Preacher
- Clifford A. Pellow as Turk
- Jake LaMotta as Bartender
The Hustler FAQ
Is The Hustler good?
The Hustler has an 86% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 1,056 audience ratings.
Where can I watch The Hustler?
In the US you can stream The Hustler on FlixFling, watch it free with ads on Plex and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.
Is The Hustler OK for kids?
The Hustler is rated NR. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 11+. Parents need to know that The Hustler is a classic drama about a pool hustler whose self-destructive gambling and drinking lead to tragedy.
What movies are like The Hustler?
If you liked The Hustler, try The Swimmer, The Man with the Golden Arm, The Great Gatsby and Written on the Wind.