Liked the story, but not enough character development

Rating: 7/10 (8 October 2005)

Loved the performances. Al Pacino is one of my favorite actors. I am not familiar with sports betting, and found the story informative. However, I was disappointed with the formation of the characters. I would say it was more due to the writing than the acting. I could tell from the beginning that Renee Russo's character was 'supposed' to be an enabler. I felt that it was not, however, subtle enough; she was saying and doing things that she was 'supposed' to do, and practically shouting that she was a codependent. I wish it hadn't been so spelled-out. Same with John (Matthew McConaughey's character). The character went from small town to big shot so quickly. The rest of the story itself was very good.