The Best Cons in The Sting: A Masterclass in Deception and Strategy

In the acclaimed 1973 film The Sting, director George Roy Hill presents a masterful blend of crime, drama, and deception. Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, the film features a series of intricate cons that engage the viewer both as spectators of the film and as marks within the narrative itself. This article delves into the best cons in The Sting, highlighting their complexity and how they serve to engage the audience on multiple levels.

The Cinematic Masterstroke: The "Sting" Con At the Climax

The film's climax revolves around a brilliantly executed sting operation, designed to trap crime boss Doyle Lonnegan. Here, FBI undercover operative Agent Polk orchestrates a complex scheme where Lonnegan places a massive bet on a race, which results in a police raid and the apparent killing of both main characters, Henry Gondorff and Johnny Hooker. This con is not only a logistical marvel but also a psychological game, where the realization of deception happens only after the con men are dead or long gone. The brilliance of this con lies in its authenticity and the way it mirrors real-world cons, making it both thrilling and believable.

Audience Engagement: The "Strands" of Deception

But the cons in The Sting extend beyond the main plot to cleverly engage the audience. Here are the two cons specifically designed to deceive the spectators:

Operative Polk's Deception: A Con Within a Con

The most well-crafted con aimed at the audience is the subterfuge initiated by Agent Polk. Polk, who is actually Hickey, cons undercover FBI member Snyder into thinking he is leading a sting operation to catch Gondorff. However, the real purpose is to divert Lonnegan's attention from the central con at the betting parlor. This multi-layered deception ensures that Lonnegan leaves his money in the betting parlor, securing the sting. The brilliance of this con lies in its ability to manipulate multiple characters and create a perfect diversion for the real con to succeed.

The Identity Twist: Loretta Salino

The other con that ensnares the audience is the revelation of the female con artist, Loretta Salino. Lonnegan hires the best female assassin, only for the audience to later learn that the seemingly temporary waitress at a diner is the real Salino. This twist adds another layer of complexity, making viewers question the motives and identities of characters and their interactions. The con within the film not only increases suspense but also offers a fresh perspective on the characters and their hidden motivations.

The Intricacies of Deception

The movie The Sting is a testament to the meticulous planning and execution of cons. From the elaborate setup to the clever misdirection, every element serves a purpose. The film's script, written by David S. Ward, with Marvin Hamlisch's iconic score, helps maintain tension and intrigue. The inspiration from historical cons by the Gondorff brothers and the meticulous craft of the filmmakers ensure that each con is not just a plot point but a narrative highlight.

Culminating in Thrills and Revelations

The Sting

reunited Paul Newman and Robert Redford in their second film together, showcasing the deep chemistry between these actors. The film not only entertains with its cons but also reflects on the art of deception and the psychological aspects of trust and betrayal. By serving these cons as both entertainment and a form of storytelling, The Sting has stood the test of time, ensuring that its intricate game of cat and mouse will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.