Opened: September 13, 2019
Directed by: Lorene Scafaria
Starring: Constance Wu, Jennifer Lopez, Julia Stiles, Keke Palmer, Lili Reinhart, Lizzo, Cardi B, Mercedes Ruehl, Trace Lysette, Wai Ching Ho, Mette Towley, Madeline Brewer & Usher
Based on Jessica Pressler’s 2015 New York magazine article “The Hustlers at Scores,” Hustlers shows what happens when strippers fight back against the men who exploit them.
Destiny (Constance Wu) recounts her time working alongside Ramona Vega (Jennifer Lopez) as a stripper. After the financial crisis of 2007-2008, Ramona has Destiny join her, Mercedes (Keke Palmer) and Annabelle (Lili Reinhart) in a plan to seduce and rob wealthy businessmen.
To start with, this cast is absolutely fantastic. Though Wu brilliantly leads the cast, it’s Lopez who steals the show. You’ll be amazed at her strength not only in personality, but also physically during her pole-dancing scenes.
The film asks the question of even though their actions were illegal, were the women really wrong? And by the end, you’ll find yourself questioning your morals.
Final say: Fight back like a girl. ★★★★★