Review of Hud

I've had a chance to watch Paul Newman in many films over the years - from Butch Cassidy to the wise, but prickly Doc Hudson from Pixar's Cars. However, Hud Bannon is like none of the characters I've seen Newman play. He's rough and tumble, cocksure, and a predator to boot. He's no hero. Still, he's a compelling character, as is his father, Homer (played by Melvyn Douglas), and his nephew, Lonnie (played by Brandon De Wilde). The three men have a tempestuous relationship due in part to traumatic events both past and present. And then there is the glue of the family, their housekeeper Alma, played by Patricia Neal, who gives an Academy Award-winning performance. Overall, Hud is a beautiful film to experience, with stunning views of the Lone Star State in crisp black and white. Of course, the backdrop of the vistas provides context for some desperate situations with the family and shows how fragile life can be in that environment. To be sure, Hud is difficult to watch in some spots, but the performances are top-notch, and while Newman's character is problematic, he is unflinching in the titular role.