- S: There is one moment that is glaring because it feels very unfinished; what happened in the car!? Also, the lengths to which the casino is willing to go early in the film feel excessive relative to the
cash with which Mahowny is playing with early on.
- C: Costuming is quite good because its simple and the fittings of the pieces tell something about the character wearing them. Some noticeably good shots and lighting that helps contrast
the two very distinct parts of Mahowny's life. Only negative is over-use of the footage from the casino security camera point of view.
- E: The story is well paced and often quite tense, but it is hard not to get distracted by a few not-so-great actors.
- N: The story is quite incredible, particularly because it is based in truth. While some might say the attention to the detailed processes for which
Mahowny retrieved the money to gamble is a negative, I think it plays an important role in displaying Mahowny's character and giving more meaning to the eventual downfall.
The bits with the woman borrower are an unnecessary comic relief.
- T: The film received three bonus points: one for costuming excellence, one for a great scene where Mahowny is fixing a car's sun-visor, one for a great scene with a line of police cars, and one for Philip Seymour Hoffman's
simple but precise performance of gambling addiction.
This film is an underated gem. Hoffman is great and the film surprises you with some great shots and costuming. All of this is wrapped in the great realization that the
events of the film are based on a true story which can't help but stick to your ribs.
Number of Watches: 1
