Sweet Bird of Youth (1962)

Based on Tennessee William’s play of the same name, Sweet Bird of Youth (1962) tells the story of Chance Wayne (Paul Newman), a handsome hustler that returns to his home town of St. Cloud, Florida after many years of trying to make it in the movie business, accompanied by Alexandra Del Largo (Geraldine Page), a needy and aging film legend with the taste of vodka and hashish. The faded star promises to help Charlie fulfill his silver screen dreams. While in Florida, Chance reunites with Heavenly (Shirley Knight), his girlfriend, who just happens to be the only daughter of ‘Boss” Finley (Ed Begley), a corrupt and powerful politician. But the hunky wannabe actor’s homecoming is far from celebrated, considering the last time he was in town he knocked up Heavenly, which led to an abortion. While Chance tries to blackmail Alexandra when she confesses some juicy details in a drug-fueled haze, the local roughnecks of St. Cloud eventually dole out some painful justice to the untrustworthy hustler. Before Paul Newman faces the business end of a knife, he wows us with two scenes showcasing his tan and toned upper body. Now that’s one sweet hunk of youth!