Paul Newman 1925-2008

Bio here

Paul Newman was awarded and Oscar for “The Color of Money,” a not memorable 1986 film. It was one of those “make-up” Oscars, given to an actor who should have won earlier, several times, but never did, an “body of work – sorry we forgot you” award. I always thought his work in Cool Hand Luke, or Hud, or even Cat on a Hot Tin Roof was better.

Lots of film clips available at You Tube, of course, but none that I really loved. Here is the “Plastic Jesus” scene when Luke has learned of his mother’s death:

I liked this very well done piece up at YouTube, posted by someone who had identified Newman as the “anti-hero.” I think that’s mostly right, although the choice of the Cash song might strike some as a bit raw, just now.

Wikipedia has his whole filmography.

John Nolte has a great obit and appreciation.

Ann Althouse wonders why she hasn’t seen more Newman films.