Still an amazing thrill after all this time

Rating: 9/10 (17 November 2012)

The Game is one of my favorite movies of all time for one specific reason - Michael Douglas. This film would not have worked with any other actor. Not only does he play brooding wealth and privilege at its best - he digs deep within the character's arsenal of emotions and pulls out the man he should have been. The turning point of the Character begins after he believes his wealth, privilege and power have all been stripped. He awakens in a coffin which is symbolic of rebirth or reincarnation then relieves himself of his Father's watch to travel home. The final crescendo is reached after the "death" scene with his brother played by Sean Penn. The realization of his "death" drives him to the greatest sorrow in his life and plunges from the roof of the building towards the streets. Memories flood his conscious as he falls and he gives into the loss. Upon the realization his brother is alive his heart is open and accepts the lesson of the The Game - you can not take wealth, power or influence into your death but you can live life to its highest as long as you treasure your family, friends and have a little fun. Money, power, wealth and all those finer things are empty when compared to the truth in friendship, family and living life to the fullest. The Game teaches us that everyone is significant from your waiter to your family. Everyone in your life deserves respect and acknowledgment because you never know when you may need them. From a simple task in life to actually saving it.
As a closing scene, we all wonder does he take the invite to the airport (risk) or go back to the party where it is safe. Let's imagine he goes to the airport and gives into love. (smile).