ðŠķ Story & Synopsis
In the classic movie “Cool Hand Luke,” released on October 31, 1967, we are introduced to the charismatic and rebellious character of Luke Jackson, played by the legendary Paul Newman. Luke is a laid-back Southern man who finds himself sentenced to two years in a rural prison but refuses to conform to the strict rules and authority imposed upon him.
As the story unfolds, we witness Luke’s unwavering spirit and refusal to bow down to the oppressive system of the prison farm. Despite facing constant attempts by the camp staff to break him, Luke remains defiant and continues to challenge the status quo, earning the admiration of his fellow prisoners for his originality and courage.
Throughout the film, we see Luke’s daring escapes and recaptures, showcasing his fearless nature and his determination to live life on his own terms. Despite the hardships he endures, Luke’s rebellious streak only grows stronger, making him both a hero and a villain in the eyes of those around him.
Set in the backdrop of a Florida prison farm in the late 1940s, “Cool Hand Luke” delves into themes of nonconformity, resilience, and the struggle against oppressive authority. Luke’s character, with more guts than brains, becomes a symbol of resistance and defiance in the face of adversity.
As the tension escalates between Luke and the prison authorities, including the sadistic warden and the intimidating fellow inmate Dragline, played by George Kennedy, Luke’s reputation as a rebel hero among his peers only solidifies. His refusal to be broken, even in the face of solitary confinement and harsh punishment, cements his legacy as a symbol of rebellion and individualism.
Through Paul Newman’s captivating performance, “Cool Hand Luke” takes viewers on a gripping journey of one man’s fight against the system, his unyielding spirit, and his ultimate quest for freedom and self-expression. The film’s exploration of power dynamics, camaraderie among prisoners, and the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity makes it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
ð§ Cast & Crew
Paul Newman, George Kennedy, J.D. Cannon, Lou Antonio, Robert Drivas, Strother Martin, Jo Van Fleet, Harry Dean Stanton, Dennis Hopper, Joe Don Baker, James Gammon, Wayne Rogers
Movie Casting:
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Paul Newman | Luke |
| George Kennedy | Dragline |
| J. D. Cannon | The Captain |
| Robert Drivas | Walking Boss Godfrey |
| Lou Antonio | Rifleman |
| Strother Martin | Prison Warden |
| Jo Van Fleet | Arletta |
ðŽ Reviews and feedback
Ah, “Cool Hand Luke,” a movie that’s as rebellious as its titular character! It’s not just any prison yarn; it’s a tale of defiance, nonconformity, and the refusal to be boxed in by societal norms. Imagine if Luke were a square peg in a world full of round holes – he simply refuses to fit!
The film resonates with audiences thanks to its timeless theme of rebellion versus authority. Paul Newman’s portrayal of the cheerfully rebellious Luke is nothing short of iconic. He embodies a free spirit that captivates viewers, even decades after the movie’s release.
Now, let’s talk about the famous line from the movie. “Plastic Jesus” sung by Paul Newman might not be on the soundtrack album, but it sure leaves an impression, much like the movie itself.
Speaking of impressions, some critics argue that “Cool Hand Luke” lacks a cohesive plot. They view it as a series of bleak events that may leave you questioning life’s meaning. However, others appreciate the film for its stellar acting and the raw portrayal of a man who refuses to conform.
So, is “Cool Hand Luke” worth watching? Absolutely! It’s a cinematic gem that delves into deeper themes while keeping you thoroughly entertained. Whether you’re drawn to Paul Newman’s charismatic performance or intrigued by the underlying message of defiance, this movie is bound to leave an impact.
Binge-Watching Tip: Keep an eye out for the subtle Christ-like imagery throughout the film. It adds another layer of depth to Luke’s character and the overall narrative.
In conclusion, “Cool Hand Luke” may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but its rebellious spirit and timeless themes make it a must-watch for those who appreciate character-driven stories with a hint of defiance.
Rating: 8/10
Remember folks, sometimes it takes a rebel like Luke to remind us that it’s okay to challenge the status quo and march to the beat of our own drum! So why conform when you can break free like Cool Hand Luke?
| Pros |
|---|
| Highly entertaining |
| Fantastic acting |
| Classic Paul Newman movie |
| Engaging rebel character |
| Memorable Christ-like symbolism |
| Audience favorite |
| Unique storyline |
| Iconic quotes |
| Cons |
| No clear plot |
| Depressing tone |
| Gaping plot holes |
| Predictable ending |
| Dull story progression |
| Enigmatic lead character |
Feedback
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Cool Hand Luke (1967) - IMDb
Truly a memorable movie, and more than just a documentary about southern road gangs. It’s a study on the theme of the indomitability of the human spirit in the face of oppression. I was about to name this as Newman’s finest performance until I thought of Eddy Felsen in “The Hustler” and Frank Galvin in “The Verdict”; it’s impossible to choose among such a cornucopia of acting achievements, but Luke is right up there (the analogy to Luke as Christ becomes a tad heavy-handed when we see him, at the close of the egg-eating scene, stretched out, arms outward, feet crossed, as if crucified; none the less, it’s a powerful image). There is no doubt, however, about George Kennedy as Dragline; it is his finest achievement, and fully deserves the Oscar he got for Best Supporting Actor. It is also fascinating to find so many familiar faces among the inmates – actors such as Dennis Hopper, Harry Dean Stanton, Joe Don Baker, Ralph Waite. and Wayne Rogers – who would go on to fame in their own right. This movie can unquestionably be called a classic. American Movie Classics just started (11/2000) showing a beautifully restored letterbox version which shows it in all its glory.
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Cool Hand Luke - Wikipedia
Cool Hand Lukeis a 1967 American prison drama film directed by Stuart Rosenberg, starring Paul Newman and featuring George Kennedy in an Oscar-winning performance. Newman stars in the title role as Luke, a prisoner in a Florida prison camp who refuses to submit to the system. Set in the early 1950s, it is based on Donn Pearce’s 1965 novelCool Hand Luke.
Cool Hand Luke Directed by Stuart Rosenberg Screenplay by Based on Cool Hand Luke by Donn Pearce
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Cool Hand Luke (1967) : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet ...
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- Topics
- Paul Newman, George Kennedy, Strother Martin, Prison, Fugitive, Bet, Hard Boiled Egg
- Language
- English
Luke Jackson is a cool, gutsy prisoner in a Southern chain gang, who, while refusing to buckle under to authority, keeps escaping and being recaptured. The prisoners admire Luke because, as Dragline explains it, “You’re an original, that’s what you are!” Nevertheless, the camp staff actively works to crush Luke until he finally breaks.
â ïļ Explanation (Spoiler)
In the 1967 film “Cool Hand Luke,” the story revolves around Lucas “Luke” Jackson, played by Paul Newman, a rebellious prisoner on a Florida chain gang. Luke’s defiance against the harsh prison life transforms into a fight for personal freedom and justice for his fellow inmates. The film explores themes of rebellion, martyrdom, and anti-establishmentarianism.
Throughout the movie, Luke challenges the social order and authority figures represented by the warden and the Walking Boss. Despite enduring hardships like consuming 50 eggs in a bet, solitary confinement, and hard labor, Luke maintains a rebellious spirit. In the final scenes, a seemingly subdued Luke tries to please the authorities, but he seizes an opportunity to escape by stealing a truck and keys.
Accompanied by his fellow inmate Dragline, played by George Kennedy, Luke makes a daring escape. Their journey symbolizes a final act of defiance against the oppressive system they are trapped in. Luke’s character evolves from a confident rebel to a contemplative individual who questions his fate and seeks answers from a higher power.
In a poignant moment, Luke enters an empty church and addresses God, expressing his frustrations and sense of helplessness. He reflects on his past actions, acknowledges his mistakes, and seeks guidance, ultimately realizing the importance of making his own choices and taking control of his destiny.
The film’s ending is both symbolic and open to interpretation, leaving viewers to ponder the themes of freedom, faith, and individual agency. “Cool Hand Luke” remains a classic that continues to captivate audiences with its powerful performances and thought-provoking narrative.
ðŠ Parents Guide & Age Rating
TV-14
Age Rating:
Cool Hand Luke (1967) is rated PG by the Motion Picture Association (MPA) for intense prison physical and mental violence, raw boxing scenes with some blood, and instances of brutality. Parents should consider this rating when deciding whether the content is appropriate for their children.
Parental Guide:
Parents need to be aware that Cool Hand Luke contains intense prison physical and mental violence, including a raw boxing fight between Luke and another inmate with a display of blood. There are scenes where a convict is repeatedly beaten with sticks and another attacks a prison “boss” in a near-strangulation incident. Additionally, there is a scene where prisoners force a man to eat a large quantity of boiled eggs.
While there is little sexual content in the movie, there is one scene with a woman in a skimpy dress. Profanity is present, but not excessive.
Overall, Cool Hand Luke is a drama film that explores themes of rebellion, authority, and conformity and may be suitable for mature teens who can handle the violence and intense scenes depicted in the movie.
ðš Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | Available to rent or buy |
| Tubi | Free to watch with subtitles in English |
â Quotes and Cult
Any man don't bring back his empty pop bottle spends a night in the box. Any man loud talking spends a night in the box.
My boy says he can eat fifty eggs, he can eat fifty eggs.
That ditch is Boss Kean's ditch. And I told him that dirt in it's your dirt.
Callin' it your job don't make it right, *boss*. You're gonna get used to wearin' them chains after a while, Luke, but you never stop listenin' to them clinkin'. 'Cause they're gonna remind you of what I've been sayin' - for your own good. Wish you'd stop bein' so good to me, Cap'n.
You gonna get used to wearin' them chains after a while, Luke. Don't you never stop listenin' to them clinking. 'Cause they gonna remind you of what I been saying. For your own good.
Wish you'd stop being so good to me, Captain.
Yeah, well...sometimes nothin' can be a real cool hand.
Oh come on. Stop beatin' it. Get out there yourself. Stop feedin' off me. Get out of here. I can't breathe. Give me some air.
Nothin'. A handful of nothin'. You stupid mullet head. He beat you with nothin'. Just like today when he kept comin' back at me - with nothin'.
He's a natural born world-shaker.
That's all there is; there isn't anymore.
ðĪCool Hand Luke Reddit Talks
Cool Hand Luke is a 1967 film that tells the story of Lucas “Cool Hand” Jackson, a man who refuses to conform to the rules and regulations of society. The film has been interpreted in many ways, but it is generally seen as a parable about the importance of individuality and the dangers of conformity.
One of the most striking things about Cool Hand Luke is its protagonist, Lucas Jackson. Luke is a man who is completely unafraid to be himself, even when it means going against the grain. He is a natural rebel, and he refuses to be cowed by authority figures. This makes him a threat to the status quo, and he is eventually imprisoned for his nonconformity.
In prison, Luke continues to defy authority. He refuses to wear the prison uniform, and he leads a work gang in a slow-down strike. His actions inspire the other prisoners, and he becomes a symbol of hope and resistance.
However, Luke’s defiance comes at a price. He is repeatedly beaten and tortured by the guards, and he is eventually sentenced to death. In the end, Luke is executed by firing squad.
Luke’s death is a tragedy, but it is also a victory. He dies as a free man, and he inspires others to fight for their own freedom. Cool Hand Luke is a powerful film that celebrates the importance of individuality and the dangers of conformity. It is a film that will stay with you long after you have seen it.
Here are some of the topics that are discussed on Reddit about Cool Hand Luke:
- The film’s symbolism: Many people have interpreted Cool Hand Luke as a parable about Jesus Christ. Luke is a charismatic leader who is persecuted for his beliefs, and his death is seen as a sacrifice for the sins of others.
- The film’s message: Cool Hand Luke is a film about the importance of individuality and the dangers of conformity. Luke is a man who refuses to be defined by others, and he inspires others to do the same.
- The film’s characters: Cool Hand Luke is full of memorable characters, including Luke himself, the sadistic warden, and the other prisoners. These characters are all well-developed and complex, and they help to make the film a truly unforgettable experience.
- The film’s ending: The ending of Cool Hand Luke is one of the most iconic in film history. Luke’s death is a tragedy, but it is also a victory. He dies as a free man, and he inspires others to fight for their own freedom.
Cool Hand Luke is a powerful film that has something to say to everyone. It is a film about the importance of individuality, the dangers of conformity, and the power of hope.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/mcwdfj/how_do_you_all_feel_about_cool_hand_luke/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/13tt9yt/cool_hand_luke_1967/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/u9nlvz/cool_hand_luke_1967_blew_me_away/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/TrueFilm/comments/up9l8d/the_existential_soul_of_cool_hand_luke/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/iwatchedanoldmovie/comments/13znvd7/i_watched_cool_hand_luke_1967/
â Frequently Asked Questions
What is the point of the movie Cool Hand Luke?
The movie Cool Hand Luke is the story of a man who refuses to conform to society’s rules and regulations, showcasing his rebellion against the system he never desired to fit into.
Is Cool Hand Luke worth watching?
Cool Hand Luke is a classic Paul Newman movie that explores the conflict between rebellion and authority. While not a polished masterpiece, it remains highly entertaining and a favorite among audiences even decades later.
What happened to Cool Hand Luke at the end of the movie?
In the final scene, it is made clear that Luke is dead, cementing his status as the true anti-hero who lived life on his own terms without aspiring to be a role model for anyone.
What is the deeper meaning of the Cool Hand Luke?
Besides the surface narrative, Cool Hand Luke delves into the absurdity of man’s quest for power over his fellow beings, highlighting the incompatibility between humans and the world they inhabit.
Why was Cool Hand Luke such a good movie?
Critics praise Cool Hand Luke for its well-written script and talented cast, offering a blend of humor and drama that reflects the human spirit’s struggle within captivity and serves as an allegory on societal norms.
Did Paul Newman do his own singing in Cool Hand Luke?
Yes, “Plastic Jesus” was sung by Paul Newman in the film, showcasing his multi-talented abilities beyond acting.
ð Recommended Movie and TV Show
List of similar movies to “Cool Hand Luke”:
- 25th Hour: A crime drama set in the United States focusing on prison life.
- Escape from Alcatraz: A thrilling movie about a prison escape.
- Midnight Express: An intense drama centered around a prison story.
- Brubaker: A film depicting prison life and rebellion.
- The Defiant Ones: A story of rebellion and defiance against the system.
- Escape From Pretoria: A prison escape movie based on true events.
- Bandit: An entertaining movie with elements of rebellion and defiance.
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