Directed by:
Mike HodgesScreenplay:
Paul MayersbergCinematography:
Michael GarfathComposer:
Simon Fisher-TurnerCast:
Clive Owen, Alex Kingston, Gina McKee, Nicholas Ball, Nick Reding, Alexander Morton, Barnaby Kay, Rhona Mitra, Mark Long, Simon Fisher-Turner, Ozzie Yue (more)VOD (1)
Plots(1)
Jack Manfred (Clive Owen) is an aspiring writer going nowhere fast. Taking a job as a casino croupier just to make ends meet, he finds himself seduced by the high stakes world of luck and chance. As the job takes over his life and his relationship to girlfriend Marion (Gina McKee) begins to crumble, Jack's attention is caught by down-on-her-luck gambler Jani (Alex Kingston). Under pressure from her creditors, she asks Jack to be the inside man for a planned heist at the casino. It all sounds so easy. But even a pro can't predict the cards he will be dealt. (Arrow Films)
(more)Reviews (2)
Croupier has three undeniable strengths that make it rise above the average: Clive Owen, for whom this is his most notable role alongside Children of Men, and I could perfectly identify him with the main character; excellent knowledge of the setting; and the atmosphere of the bizarre world of players succumbing to the passion of gambling. The slow, at times almost hypnotic pace is driven by the protagonist's internal monologue, and the camera often plays with details. A unique film without flashy effects, but it really got under my skin. Overall impression: 90%.
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What the film has going for it is an interestingly told story and Clive Owen’s performance. It’s not an action film, the pace is far from frantic, but it doesn’t get boring even for a second. Although I have never been into gambling, for some reason I really enjoyed watching the ball being given the right spin by the croupier, as well as casino chips being moved about the table (mostly away from the players).
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