Watch The Gambler

The Gambler is a 2014 crime drama film directed by Rupert Wyatt and starring Mark Wahlberg, Jessica Lange, and John Goodman. The film is a remake of the 1974 film of the same name, and centers around literature professor Jim Bennett (Wahlberg), whose gambling addiction gets him in trouble with the wrong people. Jim is a charismatic and intelligent man who teaches at a prestigious college, but behind the facade of his Ivy League lifestyle lies a destructive addiction to gambling. Despite having everything he needs to live a comfortable life, including family money and a cushy job, Jim continues to risk it all on blackjack, roulette, and other games of chance. He owes money to several violent loan sharks, and finds himself in a vicious cycle of winning and losing, as he constantly tries to dig himself out of debt.

John Goodman plays a loan shark named Frank, who initially lends money to Jim with the promise of protection. But when Jim falls deeper into debt, he realizes that Frank isn't as kind as he seems, and that he and his associates are willing to resort to violence to get their money back. Jessica Lange plays Jim's mother, Roberta, who disapproves of Jim's gambling addiction and tries to talk him out of it.

The Gambler is a psychological thriller that explores themes of addiction, obsession, and redemption. It follows Jim as he tries to navigate the dangerous world of underground gambling, and as he comes to terms with his own demons. Wahlberg delivers a powerful performance as Jim, showcasing his range as an actor and capturing the character's complex personality. Lange and Goodman are also excellent in their roles, adding depth and nuance to the story.

The film is shot in a stylish and visually appealing manner, with plenty of neon lights and glamorous casino scenes. The soundtrack is also notable, featuring songs by artists like The Rolling Stones and Pink Floyd. Overall, The Gambler is a solid crime drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It's a tense and thrilling ride that is not to be missed.

The Gambler is a 2014 thriller with a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0 and a MetaScore of 55.