It’s difficult to pick only a handful of Paul Newman movies that encompass the scope and extent of his long and varied career, but these titles represent a sampling of him at his onscreen best. They’re all available on DVD at the Kansas City Public Library.
The Left-Handed Gun [1] (1958)
As Billy the Kid, Newman made quite an impression (the role had been intended for James Dean) in this new type of psychological Western.
The Hustler [2] (1961)
Newman starred as pool hustler Fast Eddie Felsen in a game where the stakes prove too high.
Hud [3] (1963)
Newman is Hud Bannon caught up in a fierce struggle with the values of his rancher/father played by Melvyn Douglas.
Cool Hand Luke [4] (1967)
Newman plays a convict with a mind of his own in this Oscar-winning performance.
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid [5] (1969)
Newman and Robert Redford clicked as two legendary outlaws in this one.
Mr. & Mrs. Bridge [6] (1990)
Newman and his wife, Joanne Woodward, excelled in playing Kansas City couple Walter and Ivory Bridge; many scenes were filmed locally.
Road to Perdition [7] (2002)
As an Irish crime boss, Newman delivered a short but powerful performance in this movie that starred Tom Hanks.
Empire Falls [8] (2005)
A large cast, including Newman, brought the Richard Russo novel to life in this HBO production.
What are your favorite Newman movies?