A classic. Not to be missed.

Cool Hand Luke is a forever classic movie that tells the fairly simple story of a man who just doesn't know how to give up.

During the opening credits we are introduced to a man named Luke (Newman); he's drunk and cutting the heads off parking meters. His crime isn't seen with sympathy and he is sentenced to two years on the chain gang in a prison camp. His treatment is inhumane as the prisoners are forced to work long hours under the boiling hot sun performing maintenance duties on roads - they re-tar the surface, shovel out clogged ditches, etc. And at night the slightest contravention leads to a night in 'the box'; that is, a small shed where a prisoner will be in solitary confinement. Luke approaches his punishment with a smile on his face. His spirit can't be broken no matter how harsh the conditions are. He's silent most of the time and he's not a trouble-maker. His nickname amongst the prisoners becomes 'Cool Hand Luke' to match his cool personality.

The prison warden (Martin) is not pleased with Luke's attitude and aims to break his spirit. This conflict becomes the heart of the film.

Cool Hand Luke is a memorable movie that is a study of the unbreakable human spirit in the face of oppression. It's not a prison movie, but a simple tale about failure to conform in a world that requires it.

Although a dialogue-driven drama the film has a great message and is filled with memorable sequences. The film is long but it's not overlong. Each scene has a purpose in relation to the advancement of the story; each scene further develops the character of Luke and his indestructible spirit. By developing the character so effectively we can easily empathise with him during his dilemma later on into the movie.

Paul Newman delivers an unforgettable performance as Luke. Many may regard this as his best performance. He was nominated for an Oscar and his portrayal is full of heart, but it's still up for debate as to whether it's his best performance. There are many familiar faces present in this production. George Kennedy achieves a highly memorable performance. His character recognises that Luke is a man who can't be beaten. Also look out for a very young Dennis Hopper.

The music by Lalo Schifrin emphasizes the drudgery of working in a chain gang. The music also underlines the heart and spirit that is a recurring theme in the movie. The soft guitar music is especially effective in creating this type of atmosphere.

Cool Hand Luke is a great film that is a classic in every sense of the word. Its great messages alone make the film worth watching. A must for film buffs.

8/10