Hopscotch (1980)

Date	User	Rating
Sep 23, 2021	wetwillies	85 _59%
Viewed September 9, 2021. Matthau is honestly one of the best comedic actors ever, a total natural whose underplayed authenticity could elevate just about any movie. Give him the twisty narrative and low-key one-liners that make up Hopscotch, and set him against some strong character actors (including a brilliant Ned Beatty), and you get a masterclass performance and a truly delightful film.
Sep 15, 2021	Moribunny	58 _48%
A British attempt at a Walter Matthau vehicle, following quite closely in the footsteps of older ones made across the pond. It's well-made if not earth-shaking.
Mar 22, 2021	myfavchords	76 _54%
This is different than most spy movies as it contains a lot of humor. Walter Matthau is very good in the lead role of this movie. The supporting cast seem to be having a good time in this film as well. Near the very end of the movie there is one scene that is very dated. Overall I would recommend this film.
Feb 01, 2021	twincinema	80 _75%
It took me roughly 20 minutes to get the tone of this film. After that, though, it is funny enough to get some light chuckles. This is probably your grandpa's favourite comedy film.
Mar 15, 2018	rcjunk	69 _66%
Matthau is likeable as always, but his characterization feels artificial. How could it not; Walter Matthau as a disgruntled CIA field operative? His motivation isn't compelling, so the only reason the film keeps your interest is the structure. The ease of him constantly outsmarting his former boss deflates the film's tension. Definitely not bad, just not great.
Dec 18, 2017	Gnalkhere	80 _71%
A fun doofy film you can definitely show your kids to ease them into the world of mature films (provided you find a copy that has the family-friendly audio track, i.e. criterion)
Nov 26, 2017	KasperL	50 _30%
If one doesn't mind that the humor (and everything else for that matter) feels very dated, I'll go so far as to call it so-so.
Nov 11, 2017	hotsake	70 _74%
This is a very fun movie filled with likable characters and good performances. The only real downside is the fact that the film drags towards the end and feels too long for its own good.
May 27, 2013	xacviant	82 _58%
A veteran CIA agent (Walter Matthau) decides to get revenge on an arrogant superior (Ned Beatty) by publishing a tell-all memoir, while "hopscotching" around the world, evading his pursuers at every step. A fun, lighthearted comedy of espionage which turns on its hero's ingenuity--and Matthau is perfectly cast. Glenda Jackson adds class as an old colleague and lover who aids his scheme. Clever script; crisp direction by Ronald Neame. A bit slow and repetitive at times, but nonetheless enjoyable.
Apr 12, 2013	EntertainMe	78 _71%
A sort of post-spy thriller where no one gets shot, there are hardly any chase scenes, femme fatales, or much sense at all of malice between nations. Not bad! Walter Matthau is of course superb.
Feb 29, 2012	Murray	60 _7%
A spy movie for old people.
Jul 20, 2011	jodamico	76 _54%
Very good, aside from the fact that it has the same ending as Charley Varrick. Beatty is hilarious, and Matthau's little idiosyncrasies are great.
Jul 25, 2010	MartinTeller	73 _46%
Amusing little cat-and-mouse thriller. It's not especially original (and it telegraphs its "surprise" ending too early), there's nothing particulary daring about it, and the technical aspects are entirely unnoteworthy. But it's witty and a lot of fun, with Matthau carrying the film with ease. It's paced well and maintains a consistent tone, never taking itself too seriously, nor does it ever go veering into goofy slapstick. Nice, easy to digest entertainment.
Jul 07, 2009	Nathan S	3 _45%
A wonderful concept executed competently, if not very remarkably. An amusing game of cat-and-mouse most notable as an effective vehicle for Walter Matthau, who is great. Ned Beatty plays a good villain.
Aug 14, 2007	djross	74 _83%
A great vehicle for Matthau and Jackson.
Feb 19, 2007	TheDiceman	60 _62%
Not bad.

Average Percentile 55.56% from 238 Ratings