#TIFF19: “HUSTLERS”

Review by Mr. Will Wong

Make no mistake, HUSTLERS isn’t just ‘that stripper movie’. Lorene Scafaria (Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist, Ricki and the Flash) is back with this enthralling look at a group of woman, whom after thriving in the business relying much on Wall Street clientele, see it all fall apart after financial crisis ensues in the late 2000s. Refusing to fall in defeat, the women led by Ramona (Jennifer Lopez), band together in a carefully-executed plan, stealing from unassuming wealthy men silenced by the same of their habits being uncovered.

Hustlers is told from the perspective of Destiny (Constance Wu), as it cuts between past and present where she is being interviewed by Elizabeth (Julia Stiles), a journalist reporting on the scandal. Scafaria hones-in on the heart of the story, a story of two women brought together by their determination to care for their families and drive to give themselves a better life, even if it means doing illegal things.

Lopez has never been better. Wu is fantastic as our eyes into this irresistible, dark world which is both scary and fun at once.

HUSTLERS screens at TIFF Sat, Sep 07, Roy Thomson Hall at 9:30pm and Sun, Sep 08, Ryerson Theatre at 6:00pm.