HIT ME WITH YOUR BEST SHOT: Hud

Hit me with your best shot is back this week as we look at the 1963 film "Hud", starring Paul Newman. This pastoral family drama felt very much like a "writer's film", as it's main focus is on the conversations between characters. As such, the visuals don't immediately stand out to me, but it's nicely shot. It's in the fine details of the dialogue where the film shines. You get a good hint of the history between the characters, especially Hud and his virtuous father Homer. Lonnie (Hud's nephew) and Alma (the housekeeper) aren't as convinced of Hud's callous persona until later in the film. This enlightening moment sets the scene for my favourite shot.

Click below for my favourite shot...



My favourite shot follows a scene where Hud shows his true colors. Prior to this, Lonnie idolized his cool uncle and Alma cared for him in a half-motherly, half-lustful way. These opinions change in this scene where Alma and Lonnie have just avoided an attempted rape and brutal beatdown respectively. This is a pivotal point in the narrative and I was fascinated by the devastated shock that is evident on their faces.

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