Synopsis
An up-and-coming poker player tries to prove himself in a high-stakes match against a long-time master of the game.
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Cast
- Steve McQueenEric Stoner ("The Cincinnati Kid")
- Edward G. RobinsonLancey Howard
- Ann-MargretMelba Nile
- Karl MaldenShooter
- Tuesday WeldChristian Rudd
- Joan BlondellLady Fingers
- Rip TornWilliam Jefferson Slade
- Jack WestonPig
- Cab CallowayYeller
- Jeff CoreyHoban
Recommendations
- 90
Time Out
A vivid character study in the tradition of the not dissimilar The Hustler. Marvellous performances throughout ensure interest. - 83
IndieWire
It still stands up as a solid little poker movie, setting up the template for many imitators to come. - 80
TV Guide Magazine
An attempt to do for poker what The Hustler did for pool, The Cincinnati Kid succeeds on its own, but it might have been a classic with some more attention paid to the script and, perhaps, a little humor sandwiched in to relieve the suspense. - 80
Variety
Adapted from Richard Jessup's realistically-written novel, it emerges a tenseful examination of the gambling fraternity. - 75
USA Today
A young-Turk poker player challenges an old pro the way pool shooter Paul Newman took on Jackie Gleason in The Hustler, though the result lacks its predecessor's depth. Carrying Kid is one of the best casts ever. [03 Jun 2005, p.7E] - 70
Film Threat
The Cincinnati Kid is one of the definitions of what made Steve McQueen who he was. Through the roles he chose, he fit snugly in them, using his calm wits and all else of him to turn himself into the ultimately cool actor. - 50
The New York Times
A respectably packaged drama of a young card sharp, played by Steve McQueen, with a capable enough cast, that pungently projects the machinations and back-room temperatures of the side-street professional gambling world and little else. - 40
Time
By the time all the bets are in, Cincinnati Kid appears to hold a losing hand.
