Each week, I will look at a movie that is currently in theaters or available to stream and give some reasons why people should watch it. This isn’t necessarily a film critique, rather, an overview of what I think is enjoyable about the film, and why it’s worth seeing. This week, we’ll be looking at the recently released Netflix movie, Hustle, starring Adam Sandler.
Adam Sandler is on a run. It’s not 90’s peak Sandler comedy, but it’s a surprise addition to his repertoire which was thought to be limited to laughter and dad jokes. After 2019’s Uncut Gems, Sandler delivers another quality movie without the typical humor in Hustle. Hustle is listed as a comedy, and while there are a few funny moments and it’s not nearly as dark as Uncut Gems, to me, this isn’t a comedy. This is an overcoming the odds story, involving the game of basketball, a scout that is looking for his big break, and a foreign player who had no idea he could become an NBA player. There is a lot of heartwarming stuff here, but, true to the title, a lot of work to be done to get to the ultimate goal. Bo Cruz, the athlete, is played by a real NBA player (Juancho Hernangomez) which makes everything he does basketball wise believable. For the basketball fan, there are a ton of NBA players, coaches, and legends throughout to find and enjoy. Not understanding all the references will likely take a bit of the enjoyment away, but I think the story is good enough to get just about anyone to appreciate it. Sandler still operates within familiar territory for himself, as he is a big basketball guy and there is the presence of the sport in Uncut Gems. However he’s doing it, Sandler’s trek through a little more serious storytelling/acting is a pleasant surprise. Let’s see if he commits to The Hustle.
Hustle is available to stream on Netflix.
