Regardless of the character he played, Paul Newman made it very hard for anyone not to like him.  If there is one exception it’s probably Hud.  Especially during this period of time, Newman played flawed and rebellious characters that were usually deep down good people.  That’s not really the case here.  Hud Bannon is the meanest and most selfish man Newman ever brought to the big screen. 

This character study centers around four characters living on a cattle ranch in Texas.  Hud lives there with his father, nephew and housekeeper.  Hud and his father Homer, played by Melvin Douglas are complete opposites and they clash over everything.  Hud also has a dicey relationship with his housekeeper Alma, played by Patricia Neal.  He flirts with her then relentlessly insults her after she shoots down his advances.  Hud can be funny and charming but at the drop of a hat can turn ruthless and hostile.  At one point in the film one of Homer’s cows dies of hoof and mouth disease which if the entire heard is infected they’ll have to kill them all.  Hud wants to sell the cattle to unsuspecting ranchers before they hear back from the vet.  This causes a conflict in the Bannon house that affects everyone.

Douglas and Neal both won supporting actor Oscars, and Newman was nominated for best lead actor.  He didn’t win and regardless if he should have or not this movie is all his.  It’s black and white and maybe a little slow moving for some.  But for those of you interested in great performances and character development this is a can’t miss.