Today’s quick review: Cool Hand Luke. Luke Jackson (Paul Newman), a veteran with a rebellious streak, is sentenced to two years in prison for an act of petty vandalism. His resilience eventually earns him the respect of Dragline (George Kennedy), the unofficial chief of the prison yard, and the rest of his fellow prisoners. But when Luke’s attitude begins to stir up trouble, the guards decide to break his spirit once and for all.
Cool Hand Luke is a prison drama that brims with human spirit. Paul Newman stars as Luke, a nuanced man with an easy smile and a firm backbone. Once a distinguished soldier, Luke now languishes in prison with little hope or sense of purpose. His sentiments are shared by the other prisoners, who spend their sweltering days working on a chain gang and their evenings gambling on what few diversions present themselves.
Luke’s opposite number is Dragline, the brash but loyal leader of the prisoners, ably played by George Kennedy. The two men represent complementary methods of dealing with adversity. Luke prefers to hang back and bide his time, but his pride draws him into fights he cannot win. Dragline copes by making himself the center of the prison community, bullying and rallying the men with the same overbearing attitude. The two men’s interactions drive much of the story.
Part of what makes Luke interesting is that he is not a larger-than-life hero. He develops a reputation among the prisoners for his fortitude and calm demeanor, but Luke himself is a man, not a legend. His patience has its limits, his decisions are self-destructive, and he chooses his battles without thinking. But for all his faults, his image is enough to offer the prisoners hope, however unrealistic.
Watch Cool Hand Luke if you are in the mood for a well-executed character drama that touches on themes of rebellion, desperation, and hope. The movie earns its points through multifaceted characterization and insightfully human moments, so expect more of a literary feel than the typical, plot-driven film. Those looking for an upbeat movie should look elsewhere, while those who want a fuller story arc should check out The Shawshank Redemption.
8.2 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 to 8.0 for excellent acting, competent execution, and an unusually realistic portrayal of the human spirit.