While Paul Newman ("Henry") and Robert Redford ("Johnny") have a clear connection, this film truly shines because of Robert Shaw's exceptional performance. He portrays "Lonnegan," a tough gangster who is swindled without knowing it by “Johnny,” who then realizes that escaping is the wisest course. It’s after this that the pair consider the possibility of extracting significantly more money from their victim and devise an intricate scheme disguised as an illicit horse betting venture. However, "Lonnegan" proves to be a formidable opponent, and every move they make carries risk—yet gradually, along with a large group of other con artists, they begin constructing the perfect trap for this intelligent but ultimately avaricious individual. Will they succeed? And will they manage to survive their endeavor? The film is visually appealing, the script moves swiftly and contains humor while providing plenty of interaction among nearly all involved, including Eileen Brennan in fine form and Harold Gould as the charming "Kid Twist." The visuals are wonderful—the sets, costumes, vehicles—even the tommy guns—all contribute significantly to this excellent story about a situation that reverses itself. The Scott Joplin music is just an added bonus to this polished and stylish crime drama, one I continue to enjoy after fifty years.

Source on TMDB