Watch Abe & Phil's Last Poker Game
- R
- 2017
- 1 hr 25 min
-
5.7 (321)
Abe & Phil's Last Poker Game, released in 2017, follows two elderly men, Dr. Abe Mandelbaum (played by Martin Landau) and retired policeman Phil (played by Paul Sorvino), as they form an unlikely friendship while living at a nursing home in New England. Both men have their share of health problems and are forced to navigate the challenges that come with aging. In order to pass the time and engage in a bit of friendly competition, they start playing poker together.
As the two men bond over their shared experiences and their love for the game of poker, they also strike up a friendship with nurse Angela (played by Maria Dizzia), who becomes a bright spot in their otherwise dreary daily lives. Together, the three of them engage in conversations about life, love, and everything in between.
The film explores themes of aging, friendship, and the importance of connection as we grow older. It also touches on more serious topics like illness, loss, and regret. Through Abe and Phil's interactions, we see the importance of human connection, even in the face of the challenges that come with aging.
Martin Landau's performance as Abe, a retired doctor struggling with dementia, is particularly noteworthy. He brings a poignant vulnerability to the character, making us feel both the weight of his decline and the joy that he experiences when playing poker with his friend.
Paul Sorvino's portrayal of Phil as a tough-as-nails former cop also adds depth to the film. We see that even though he may have a gruff exterior, he has a big heart and cares deeply for his friend.
Maria Dizzia shines as Angela, the caring nurse who forms a bond with both men. She brings a warmth and sincerity to the role, making her character an important part of the trio's dynamic.
Overall, Abe & Phil's Last Poker Game is a touching and thought-provoking exploration of the challenges that come with aging and the importance of human connection. With strong performances from its cast and well-written dialogue, it's worth a watch for anyone interested in thought-provoking dramas that explore the complexity of the human experience.
Abe & Phil's Last Poker Game is a 2017 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7 and a MetaScore of 48.