The Hustle (2019) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“The Hustle,” directed by Chris Addison and released in 2019, is a comedic remake of the classic 1988 film “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.” Starring Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson, the film follows two con artists who find themselves competing against each other to swindle a wealthy tech mogul. With its blend of humor, charm, and clever twists, “The Hustle” offers a fresh take on the con artist genre, appealing to fans of both leading actresses.
In this review, we will delve into the film’s plot, character dynamics, themes, and where to watch “The Hustle” online.
Plot Summary
The film centers around Josephine Chesterfield (Anne Hathaway), a glamorous and sophisticated con artist living in the luxurious French Riviera. Josephine has mastered the art of deception and is well-known for her elaborate schemes to rob wealthy men of their fortunes.
Enter Penny Rust (Rebel Wilson), a clumsy and brash con artist who is drawn to Josephine’s success. After a chance encounter, Penny seeks to learn the tricks of the trade from Josephine. However, the two soon realize that they have very different styles of conning. Josephine is refined and strategic, while Penny is loud and impulsive.
When a naive tech billionaire named Thomas Westerburg (Alex Sharp) arrives on the scene, the two con artists decide to compete against each other to see who can swindle him first. As they engage in a series of increasingly ridiculous and hilarious schemes, their rivalry leads to unexpected twists and turns.
Cast and Performances
Anne Hathaway as Josephine Chesterfield
Anne Hathaway shines as Josephine Chesterfield, exuding charm and sophistication. Her performance is a delightful mix of elegance and cunning, capturing the essence of a master con artist. Hathaway’s comedic timing and ability to switch between humor and seriousness make her character compelling and enjoyable to watch.
Rebel Wilson as Penny Rust
Rebel Wilson brings her signature comedic flair to the role of Penny Rust. Her portrayal of a bumbling yet determined con artist adds a layer of humor to the film. Wilson’s physical comedy and wit shine throughout the movie, making Penny a memorable character who balances Hathaway’s elegance.
Alex Sharp as Thomas Westerburg
Alex Sharp plays Thomas Westerburg, the unsuspecting tech billionaire caught in the crossfire of Josephine and Penny’s schemes. Sharp’s performance adds a layer of innocence to the film, serving as the perfect foil to the two con artists.
Direction and Visual Style
Chris Addison directs “The Hustle” with a lighthearted touch, ensuring that the film maintains a playful tone throughout. The pacing is brisk, with a mix of comedy and clever twists that keep the audience engaged. Addison skillfully balances the rivalry between the two leads, allowing their unique personalities to shine.
The cinematography captures the stunning visuals of the French Riviera, enhancing the film’s glamorous setting. The vibrant colors and picturesque landscapes contribute to the overall charm, making the film visually appealing.
Themes and Social Commentary
“The Hustle” explores themes of deception, rivalry, and the nature of trust. Through the competition between Josephine and Penny, the film raises questions about the morality of con artists and the lengths people will go to achieve their goals.
The film also touches on the dynamics of female empowerment, showcasing two strong women who navigate a male-dominated world through their intelligence and wit. Their rivalry ultimately leads to a deeper understanding of each other and highlights the importance of female friendship and collaboration.
Reception and Impact
Upon its release, “The Hustle” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the chemistry between Hathaway and Wilson, while others found the humor uneven. However, audiences generally enjoyed the film for its lighthearted approach and entertaining premise. The dynamic between the two leads was particularly well-received, showcasing their comedic talents.
While “The Hustle” may not have received critical acclaim, it found its audience among those seeking a fun and enjoyable comedy, especially fans of the original “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.”
Where to Watch “The Hustle” Online
If you’re interested in watching “The Hustle,” here are some platforms where you can stream or rent it in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- Hulu – “The Hustle” is available for streaming on Hulu, accessible for subscribers.
Rental and Purchase Options
If you prefer to rent or purchase the film, you can find it on the following platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video – Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $14.99 in HD.
- Google Play Movies – Available to rent for $3.99 or purchase for $14.99.
- Apple TV/iTunes – Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $14.99.
- YouTube Movies – Available for rent at $3.99 or purchase at $14.99.
Conclusion
“The Hustle” (2019) is a lighthearted and entertaining comedy that showcases the comedic talents of Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson. With its charming performances, witty humor, and engaging plot, the film offers a fresh take on the con artist genre while exploring themes of rivalry and empowerment.
For those looking for a fun and escapist movie experience, “The Hustle” is worth watching. Available on Hulu and various rental platforms, it invites audiences to enjoy the clever antics of two con artists as they navigate the complexities of deception and friendship.
