Some people hear Hustlers and think, “Another stripper movie?” However, it is a pleasant shock that the movie is much more than stripping. It’s also based on a true story, which makes for a more interesting plot line.
While stripping is a main focus in the movie, “Hustlers” it is also about a woman’s struggle for independence, dealing with single parenthood, friendship, loyalty, and abandonment. It has been a long time since I have seen a movie where the women are not pitted against each other, and sisterhood and friendship is really what this movie is truly about.
Actress Constance Wu plays Destiny, a young stripper struggling to support herself and her family, who seeks guidance from the older more experienced stripper Ramona, played by Jennifer Lopez. Other well-known stars in the film are Julia Stiles, Keke Palmer, Lili Reinhart, Lizzo, and Cardi B.
The movie starts off glamorously, with more than enough money to go around in the main strip club, but that all changes when the 2008 recession hits.
Destiny realizes that she can no longer make enough money to support herself and her family while working as a stripper at the club. After reuniting with Ramona and her crew, they find a new way to bring money to the club working together.
Although their choices could be seen as unwise and are also illegal, the women work together as a unit to get the money they need for their families. The love and support the women show throughout the movie for each other is refreshing in a society that likes to act like all women are on their own teams. Here a team of women work together and even when they make mistakes and show poor judgment they end up valuing their friendship more than the money.
“Hustlers” is the perfect girls night movie and worth the watch. I give this movie a 5/5 for being fun and touching. Be sure to grab a ticket and some popcorn with your friends while this hit is still in theaters.