"The Gambler" At A Glance So you've watched the trailer and your ready to read all about how Jim Bennett(Wahlberg) makes a killing at the tables right? Well, that's not what this review nor the film's about. We're going to tell you what the film's about, but in the Unhinged manner that it deserves. "The Gambler" is a film about a person trying to find their true purpose in life. Bennett is a man in the beginning that seemingly has gotten everything that he's ever reached for. But in doing so, he's lost so much of himself that he doesn't even remember how his life got so screwed up in the first place. You see, Bennett appears as a college professor, accomplished author and an outstanding citizen to the general public. But underneath there's a troubled man, a distressed man with more problems than money alone can solve. Maybe that's why he's on a crusade of self-destruction which takes the shape of his gambling addiction? Yes, we said Gambling Addiction and it's one that threats to take the lives of Bennett and everyone close to him. So what would a sensible person do in this predicament? If you said, "Quit while you're ahead" that would make sense, but we're talking about Bennett, a troubled man. Bennett not only digs a deeper whole in his pocket and his life, but initiates a self-destructive gambling spree that is almost certain to have him cash-out in an early grave. The Gambler's Self-Destruction We're not talking $20s and $10s here, we're talking Big Money. The kind of money that would have most of us pondering early retirement. Jim Bennett blows through thousands of dollars like it's his daily mission to go home broke. And he's gotten so good at destroying himself that he gets his wish almost every time. We know this is just a film, but the story is real for a lot of people suffering from addiction. Bennett's takes the form of gambling, but what other vices have people used to destroy their lives? Their families? Careers? If you know someone or are someone struggling with an addiction, get help. Don't continue on the path of "The Gambler" any longer than you have to. You never know, that last spin or hearty fix could be your last. Noteworthy Performances Oh man, noteable performances? There are some quality ones in here, alongside Wahlberg, but John Goodman and Michael Williams lead the charge. As we know, John Goodman is an actor that has yet to gain the respect he deserves, but remains consistent in his skill and execution. John Goodman plays the role of Frank, a loan shark, so to speak, that Bennett approaches in a time of need. Frank doesn't just want to take advantage of Bennett's downward spiral, he wants to help him. John Goodman's sincere qualities show through in his performance, as he tries to open Bennett's mind to another way of life. Now Baraka, Mr. Williams, he doesn't give a flying duck what happens to Bennett. For him, money is money and if you owe him, you really should consider paying up. We feel that Williams was perfect for this role because his character reminds us of Omar from The Wire. You know, cutthroat, doesn't care about who or what he destroys, as long as he achieves his objective. That's why Williams playing as Baraka fits so well since even though he may smile and have more money in "The Gambler", somethings never change. After Watching, "The Gambler" We felt that the film provided a choice opportunity for a mature Wahlberg to take on a meatier role filled with emotional distress. "The Gambler" wasn't a movie about one man spending his last chip at the casino table. It was a film about a man intentionally destroying himself to find..well himself. A lot can be taken from a film such as this when dealing with problems of our own. How do we cope with our emotions? Do we embark on a self-destructive path such as Bennett or do we seek help from others? Just something to think about. Well, if you haven't watched "The Gambler" yet, go see it while it's in theaters now. Enjoy -Unhinged Reviews- Did you enjoy this Unhinged Review of "The Gambler"? Let us know in the comments below ^_^ Ready For Another Review?
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