Do you know how to tell a hustler from a skilled con artist? Diggstown (also called Midnight Sting) comes from director Michael Ritchie and features James Woods, Louis Gossett Junior, Bruce Dern, Heather Graham, Oliver Platt, a young James Caviezel, and Randall “Tex” Cobb. The story follows Woods as Gabriel Caine, a con man recently released from prison who, along with his partner Fitz (Platt), organizes a boxing "sting" operation in Diggstown, a rural area in Olivair County controlled by the self-important John Gillon (Dern). The plan involves Caine’s old friend Honey Roy Palmer (Gossett Jr.) having to fight and defeat 10 men from Diggstown in a single day. As money changes hands and secrets are revealed, corruption and violence remain close at hand. Midnight Sting appeared on my TV screen one morning when I was unable to sleep. Out of sheer frustration with not being able to rest, I turned the television on. What I didn’t realize then was that I would develop a strong affection for this movie, an appreciation that continues today. The announcer mentioned it and said James Woods starred in it. Because Woods always delivers something worthwhile, I decided to watch it, and over the next 98 minutes, I laughed out loud, felt sadness during some moments, and cheered on several occasions. It quickly became one of my all-time favorite films. At first glance, it seems like a straightforward story, but there’s so much more depth beyond the good fight scenes and memorable lines. Based on Leonard Wise's novel "The Diggstown Ringers," this film explores themes of loyalty, friendship, greed, power, corruption, and deception—as well as examining the mindset of a small town. The acting is also excellent; Woods and Gossett’s performances together are among the most captivating pairings from the 1990s. The plot twists, which are quite surprising, really elevate what was already a clever and humorous script. It didn't get much attention when it came out, and even now, with so many people online, it seems to be overlooked or forgotten. Of course, not everyone who sees it will instantly love it, but if you find yourself unable to sleep or looking for something to rent, you should give it a try. It deserves the opportunity to potentially win you over. I really enjoy it, and there’s a good chance you might too. A truly excellent film. 10/10

Source on TMDB