You Win Some, You Lose Some

Rating: 5/10 (12 October 2009)

Las Vegas body-builder Matthew McConaughey (as Brandon Lang) finds his promising football career sidelined by a bum knee. But, he stays close to the sport by becoming a "predictor" for those interested in gambling on games. Mr. McConaughey's 80% success rate attracts the attention of professional gambling adviser Al Pacino (as Walter Abrams). Mr. Pacino admires McConaughey's muscular frame, and builds him into his right hand man. Their relationship is more "father/son" than romantic, however; and, Pacino is married to skinny ex-junkie Rene Russo (as Toni).
In New York, McConaughey and Pacino proceed to handle the ups and downs in the business of football gambling advice. Jeremy Piven (as Jerry) is good, in a woefully underwritten role. The weirdest scene has wealthy Armand Assante (as Novian) straddling and urinating on McConaughey; you would think he would aim at Matthew's face, but maybe he was saving something for a possible second encounter? Also watch for the very arousing blonde Jamie King (as Alexandria) to appear in a restaurant, peddling her wares; later topless, she has brief and darkly lighted boudoir scene.
***** Two for the Money (10/7/05) D.J. Caruso ~ Al Pacino, Matthew McConaughey, Rene Russo, Jeremy Piven