Variety
There's enough swaggering cynicism for three pictures but barely enough soul to sustain even one - a stylish, energetic but disappointingly glib remake of Karel Reisz's still-potent 1974 drama.
Full review
The Gambler (2014)
Mark Wahlberg has a gambling problem in this remake of the James Caan-starring 1974 drama. Literature professor Jim (Wahlberg) makes and loses huge sums in the blink of an eye, borrowing his way into trouble with the Mob until he finds himself on the horns of a moral dilemma – what’s he prepared to do to save his skin?
Co-stars Brie Larson (Short Term 12), Michael K. Williams (TV’s Boardwalk Empire) and screen legends Jessica Lange and John Goodman. Rupert Wyatt (Rise of the Planet of the Apes) directs from a script by Oscar-winner William Monahan (The Departed).
2014Rating: MA15+, Strong coarse language111 minsUSA
DramaThriller
- Director:
- Rupert Wyatt ('Rise of the Planet of the Apes')
- Writer:
- William Monahan
- Cast:
- Mark WahlbergBrie LarsonMichael K. WilliamsJessica LangeJohn GoodmanAnne McDanielsSonya WalgerErika JordanGeorge KennedyCaitlin O'Connor
The Gambler (2014) / Reviews
Total Film
Wahlberg finds his most interesting role since The Departed in a film that's heavy on atmosphere and suspense but shy of a full deck when it comes to characterisation.
Full reviewThe New York Times
What's mostly missing from is a sense of why Jim is so insistent on squandering his money, privilege and patrimony.
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The Guardian
Despite stylish direction [and] a few arresting set pieces, never manages to make sense of William Monahan's often laughably overripe screenplay.
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Hollywood Reporter
In nearly every scene, Wahlberg carries off the central role with what could be called determined elan.
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Empire Magazine
A rare grown up thriller, full of interesting bits and a strong turn from Wahlberg. But as a whole Wyatt's film doesn't grip as it might.
Full review
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