Movie Stars Special in - The Golden Years - Actors 60's - Paul Newman

Paul Newman: A Journey Through a Cinema Legend

Welcome! Today we embark on an exciting journey through the life and career of one of the greatest icons the big screen has ever seen: Paul Newman. From his humble beginnings to becoming a cinema legend, Newman left an indelible mark on the industry and in the hearts of movie lovers worldwide.

We will explore each key decade of his career, from his early steps in the 1950s to his most outstanding achievements in later years. We will discover how Newman became a symbol of masculinity, charisma, and versatility on screen, captivating audiences of all ages with his innate talent and magnetic presence.

Throughout our journey, we will highlight some of his most iconic films, from intense dramas to light comedies, and thrilling thrillers. Each film will be a window into a different aspect of Newman’s incredible acting ability, and we will explore the behind-the-scenes moments that shaped his enduring legacy.

Moreover, we will not only focus on his work in cinema but also explore his impact off-screen. From his social activism to his philanthropic efforts, Newman proved to be much more than a talented actor; he was a passionate advocate for important causes and a role model for future generations.

So, join us as we dive into the life and work of Paul Newman, a man whose name is etched in the history of cinema forever. Get ready to be inspired, moved, and, above all, enamored with the extraordinary legacy of this titan of the silver screen!

Paul Newman – The First Steps on the Big Screen:
Born on January 26, 1925, in Shaker Heights, Ohio, Newman was raised in a modest family, training as an actor at the Actor’s Studio in New York.

1958 – The Long, Hot Summer
His early roles in cinema included appearances in films such as «The Long, Hot Summer» (1958), directed by Martin Ritt and co-starring Joanne Woodward, who would become his wife and life partner. This film marked the beginning of an artistic and personal collaboration that would last decades.

«Cat on a Hot Tin Roof» (1958), directed by Richard Brooks and co-starring Elizabeth Taylor. Newman played Brick Pollitt; a man tormented by internal conflicts in a Southern United States family. This film earned him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

1960s – Consolidation as a Hollywood Star:
Newman continued to rise in the film industry during the 1960s with memorable performances in films such as:

1960 – Exodus
«Exodus«, (1960) In this epic film directed by Otto Preminger, Newman played a Jewish man fighting for Israel’s independence. The film addressed themes of politics and religion, and Newman delivered a powerful and moving performance that resonated with audiences and critics.

«Exodus» was a significant film in Paul Newman’s career, where he played Ari Ben Canaan, a Jewish leader in the struggle for Israel’s independence. This film, as mentioned, directed by Otto Preminger, allowed Newman to explore a grand role in an epic and emotionally intense story. His standout performance in this role allowed him to showcase his versatility as an actor and provided him a significant role in a historical film that addressed deep and universal themes about identity, resilience, and the quest for freedom.

1961 – The Hustler
«The Hustler « (1961), directed by Robert Rossen and co-starring Jackie Gleason. Newman played Fast Eddie Felson, an ambitious and arrogant pool player. His performance earned him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

The film is a blend of noir and sports genres, with a low budget (2.1M $) and a strong focus on acting performances.

1963 – The Prize
In «The Prize» (1963), directed by Mark Robson and co-starring Edward G. Robinson, Newman plays a writer who becomes embroiled in an intrigue during a trip to Stockholm to receive a literary award. The film combines elements of comedy and suspense as Newman faces a series of hilarious and dangerous situations.

«The Prize» with a rating of 7.2, as we said, is a film in the purest Hitchcock style, produced by Roxbury Productions and classified in the suspense genre. A film, therefore, in the purest Hitchcock style, but not directed by him, as the honor went to director Mark Robson.

And, just as if he were the English director, Robson had two top-notch performers. On one hand, the macho-man Paul Newman, and on the other hand, nominated for the Golden Globe as New Star of the Year Elke Sommer (The Blonde) So many analogies, right?

1963 – Hud
In «Hud» (1963), directed by Martin Ritt and co-starring Melvyn Douglas and Patricia Neal, Newman played a ruthless and defiant man who clashes with his father and family on a ranch in Texas. The film explored themes of generational conflict and the search for personal redemption.

1967 – Torn Curtain
In «Torn Curtain» (1966), directed by Alfred Hitchcock and co-starring Julie Andrews, Newman played an American scientist caught in a web of espionage during a visit to East Berlin. The film was a tense political thriller that showcased Newman’s versatile talent in a different role from what he was accustomed to playing.

Therefore, leaving the bar high, in this case, we offer you a suspenseful film with a starring role for Paul Newman, who this time worked under the orders of the master of mystery Alfred Hitchcock. Therefore, a much-desired role and finally getting Paul Newman as the lead. Hence, a suspense thriller that, by the way, reminds us a lot of the recommended «The Prize» from 1963. Remember?

Different directors, Mark Robson and Alfred Hitchcock and different lead actresses, Elke Sommer and a tormented Julie Andrew, who finds herself in the middle of East Germany and, of course, thinking her boyfriend is a traitor. What a blow, right? Therefore, two different films, but fundamentally with quite a few analogies. Let’s see how many you find, because I suggest you watch both.

1967 – Cool Hand Luke
In «Cool Hand Luke» (1967), directed by Martin Ritt and co-starred by Lee Remick, Newman plays Luke, a prisoner in a southern jail who stands up to the system and challenges authority. This film stood out for Newman’s masterful performance and became a classic in prison cinema.

Its director was Stuart Rosenberg and its lead actor, the renowned Paul Newman, who was nominated for both the Oscar and the Golden Globe for best actor. Unfortunately, he did not win these awards, as they went to Rod Steiger for his role in «In the Heat of the Night «. So, just a nomination, and although he didn’t know it, he had to wait no less than 18 years, until 1986, to finally win it for «The Color of Money«.

Also, it should be noted that the good Paul was accompanied by Dennis Hopper, Strother Martin, and especially George Kennedy who, in addition to being nominated for the Golden Globe, won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.

1969 – Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
And finally, one of the most notable milestones of Newman’s career in the 60s was his role in «Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid«, directed by George Roy Hill and co-starred with Robert Redford. The film follows two charismatic fortune seekers in a series of adventures and misadventures in the Wild West. The chemistry between Newman and Redford, combined with Hill’s masterful direction, made this film an instant classic and kept Newman at the top of international fame.

«Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid» is not just a movie of action and shootouts, but also a reflection on loyalty, camaraderie, and the value of friendship in a world where survival of the fittest often prevails. The cinematography of the film, along with its unforgettable soundtrack, contribute to creating a unique cinematic experience that endures over time.

In summary, «Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid» is a timeless classic that has left an indelible mark on the history of cinema. With its perfect blend of action, humor, and drama, this film remains an essential reference for both Western genre enthusiasts and those who simply enjoy a good story about friendship and camaraderie.

1970s – Diversification and Recognition

During the 1970s, Paul Newman demonstrated his versatility as an actor by taking on a variety of challenging roles, exploring new cinematic territories, and solidifying his position as one of the leading figures in the film industry.


1972 – The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean
His first milestone in this decade came with «The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean» (1972), directed by John Huston and co-starring with Anthony Perkins. Set in the late 19th century, in Texas, the Pecos River marked the boundary between civilization and the beginning of the wild West. In a small town, citizens are about to hang Roy Bean, an outlaw bank robber, but a young Mexican woman saves his life. Roy then declares himself judge, dispensing his own brand of justice.

1973 – The Sting
Continuing his string of successes, Newman starred in «The Sting» (1973), directed by George Roy Hill and co-starring Robert Redford. In this film, Newman portrays Henry Gondorff, a cunning con artist planning an elaborate heist against a powerful gangster. His masterful performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, further solidifying his reputation as one of the most talented actors of his generation.

In «The Sting» (1973), as mentioned, directed by George Roy Hill and co-starring Robert Redford and Paul Newman, Newman reprises his collaboration with Redford in a tale of con men during the Great Depression. The film, which can be seen as a spiritual sequel to «Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid«, highlights the chemistry between Newman and Redford, as well as Hill‘s masterful direction, offering an intriguing and stylish tale of deceit and betrayal. Newman brings his characteristic charisma and cunning to the role of Henry Gondorff, in a performance that perfectly complements the dynamism of Redford and the skill of Hill in creating an unmatched atmosphere of suspense.

1974 – The Towering Inferno
In «The Towering Inferno» (1974), directed by John Guillermin and Irwin Allen and co-starring Steve McQueen, Newman took on the role of Doug Roberts, a brave architect who leads rescue efforts in a blazing skyscraper. His compelling and intense performance captured the audience’s attention and solidified him as one of the most beloved action heroes of the era.

In «The Towering Inferno» (1974), as mentioned, directed by John Guillermin and Irwin Allen, Paul Newman shines with his portrayal of architect Doug Roberts, who desperately struggles to save lives trapped in a burning skyscraper. The film, co-starring Steve McQueen, is known for its spectacle and impressive visual effects, but it’s Newman‘s performance that elevates the movie to another level. His character, brave and determined, becomes the moral leader amidst chaos, working alongside other characters, including the fire chief played by Steve McQueen, to confront the catastrophe.

The chemistry between Newman and McQueen is palpable, and their on-screen dynamic adds depth to the narrative, turning «The Towering Inferno» into an exciting action thriller that continues to be remembered by generations. With his charisma and determination, Newman embodies a brave and decisive hero, facing chaos and tragedy with calmness and courage. His performance captures the emotional intensity of the moment and keeps the audience on the edge of their seats throughout the movie, making Doug Roberts one of the most memorable characters in Newman‘s career.

1980s – The Long March to Recognition

1986 – The Color of Money
During the 1980s, Paul Newman further solidified his position as one of the most revered figures in Hollywood, particularly highlighted by his role in «The Color of Money» (1986). Directed by Martin Scorsese and co-starring a young Tom Cruise.

This film earned Newman his first Academy Award for Best Actor, nearly a quarter-century after his first nomination. The movie, which is a sequel to «The Hustler«, showcases the evolution of Newman‘s character, Eddie Felson, who now serves as a mentor to a young and ambitious pool player portrayed by Cruise.

1987 – Paul Newman – Best Actor Oscar

Newman’s performance in this film is a tour de force of maturity and depth, displaying accumulated wisdom and emotional scars of a man who has seen much in life. His chemistry with Cruise is palpable, and together they elevate the film to new emotional and cinematic heights. «The Color of Money» not only marked a milestone in Newman‘s career but also served as a reminder of the enduring power of his talent and screen presence.

Legacy and Recognition of Paul Newman:

The cinematic legacy of Paul Newman is undeniably monumental, and his recognition in the film industry is deserved and lasting. Throughout his extensive career, Newman demonstrated impressive versatility and depth across a wide range of genres and characters. From his early roles in the 1950s to his memorable performances in the following decades, Newman left an indelible mark on the history of cinema.

Beyond his acting talent, Newman is also remembered for his integrity and humanitarianism off-screen. He founded Newman’s Own, a food company that donates its profits to charitable organizations, and established the Newman’s Own Foundation, which has raised millions of dollars for humanitarian causes. His commitment to social justice and generosity have left a lasting impact on the world beyond the silver screen.

In recognition of his contributions to film and society, Paul Newman received numerous awards and honors throughout his life, including the Oscar for Best Actor, Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, BAFTA Awards, and an honorary Screen Actors Guild Award. But beyond the awards, Newman’s true legacy lies in the lasting impact he left on film culture and in the lives of those he helped through his philanthropic work. His on-screen presence will continue to be remembered and celebrated by future generations, ensuring that his legacy endures for many years in the world of cinema.

And so, we have concluded this review of the cinematic history of this great actor, who especially in the ’60s, has given us so much. Now, all that remains is to enjoy it knowing that, for this purpose, and on Ok.ru, you just have to click on the links that I have hidden under the following photos. Enjoy.