Watch Kenny Rogers as The Gambler

Kenny Rogers as The Gambler is a 1980 Western drama film directed by Dick Lowry and featuring country music legend Kenny Rogers in the lead role. Set in the Old West, the movie follows the adventures of Brady Hawkes, a skilled gambler, as he travels from town to town, seeking new challenges and dodging dangerous enemies. Along the way, he becomes involved with various people, including a beautiful widow and her son, and a ruthless outlaw who wants him dead.

The movie starts with a bang, as we see Hawkes in the middle of a high stakes poker game at a saloon. The tension is palpable as the players take turns bluffing and raising, hoping to win the large pot. Hawkes doesn't say much, but his confident demeanor and steady hand indicate that he's a seasoned pro. After a few intense rounds, Hawkes emerges victorious, earning the respect of his opponents and the admiration of the crowd.

From there, the movie takes us on a wild ride, as Hawkes encounters a series of challenges and confrontations. He tangles with corrupt lawmen, ruthless gangsters, and even an angry buffalo. But through it all, he remains cool and collected, relying on his wits, his experience, and a bit of luck to come out on top. Along the way, he also develops a romance with Elizabeth, a lovely widow who is struggling to protect her land from a greedy developer.

One of the most memorable scenes in the movie is when Hawkes meets up with his old friend, a fellow gambler named Billy Montana (played by Bruce Boxleitner). The two men share a drink and swap stories, reminiscing about their early days and discussing their plans for the future. But despite their fond memories, there's an underlying sense of friction between them, as they both have different ideas about what it means to be a gambler. Montana is more aggressive and impulsive, while Hawkes is more measured and cautious. As they part ways, it's clear that their friendship is strained, but they both respect each other's skills and abilities.

Throughout the movie, Rogers delivers a nuanced performance as Hawkes, balancing his tough exterior with a softer, more vulnerable side. He's an experienced gambler, but he's also a man with a heart, and he's willing to put himself on the line for the people he cares about. Whether he's quelling a bar brawl or rescuing a damsel in distress, he exudes a quiet confidence that makes him a compelling hero.

Another standout in the movie is Christine Belford, who plays Elizabeth. She imbues the character with a quiet strength and resilience, refusing to back down in the face of adversity. Despite the odds against her, she's determined to hold onto her land and protect her son, even if it means risking her own life. Her chemistry with Rogers is palpable, and the two actors share some tender and romantic moments that add depth to the story.

Overall, Kenny Rogers as The Gambler is an enjoyable and well-crafted Western drama, with plenty of action, drama, and romance to keep audiences engaged. Rogers proves that he's not just a talented musician, but also a skilled actor, delivering a standout performance that cements his status as a pop culture icon. The movie may be a bit dated in some respects, but its timeless themes of honor, loyalty, and redemption continue to resonate with audiences today.

Kenny Rogers as The Gambler is a 1980 western with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.