This strong but inferior sequel to the great The Hustler (1961) pairs up Paul Newman and Tom Cruise first as partners, then as rivals. Newman's character sees Cruise's as a younger version of himself, so he teaches him to be a hustler. There's friction, of course, and mounting tension as the younger's pride can't take the punishment hustling entails. Cruise overdoes it, but Newman is great here. There are some spectacular pool shots on display, too, but the film doesn't manage to recapture the wickedly thick atmosphere that made The Hustler so compelling. Nevertheless, it stands well on its own.