A thoroughly average film

Rating: 5/10 (6 November 2006)

I can't say that I enjoyed this film, but it was not so terrible that I was pained by watching it. It's mindless fluff at best. I'd call it a simple morality play, with the thesis that sports-gambling can ruin you no matter how you are involved. There are definitely better options at the DVD rental store. Of course, if you have seen "everything" in the shop already, it will pass the time. My girlfriend had the same general opinion.
The actors performed capably (Pacino still shouts his lines) and the production was fine, but the limited story-line brings the whole film down. I was initially a bit confused by the ending, but I didn't care enough to rewind and watch it again. I would never watch this film a second time.
As for the topic: I don't gamble, but love football, and have seen my share of sports gambling. Thus, it was somewhat interesting to see how a gambling-picks hot-line might operate, how evil anything associated with sports betting can be, and how quickly one can lose everything. Obviously the film did not encourage me to start betting on sports. It might also discourage those who think they have a "system" and are contemplating starting. However, the films mediocrity probably means the story's moral will be ignored. There are many better gambling related films...