Herb Stempel saw "Marty" three times but is forced to give an incorrect answer on "21", thereby allowing whiz-kid-in-the-making Charles Van Doren to take over as the champion of the show. Herb's time in the sun is over but naturally he is trying to hang on to the fame, respect and money as long as he can. Van Doren is then tempted by the same things but due to the behind-the-scenes mechanics of the show, is at odds with his conscience.
This movie is about several things and they all meld into a great period piece which should be seen by anyone interested in a bit of a history lesson combined with magnificient acting and clear, crisp cinematography.
Redford hired fellow directors Martin Scorsese and Barry Levinson for small parts, and got a great performance from everyone in the ensemble. Of special mention is a scene when Charles Van Doren and his father share a piece of chocolate cake. Paul Scofield and Ralph Fiennes are especially memorable as father and son. I can understand why actors are in awe of Scofield, he really has an amazing screen presence and deserved his Supporting nomination, though in all honesty it could have gone to at least four of five other men in the cast.
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