T he world of casino gambling may seem glamorous from the outside, but it's the inside director Mike Hodges wants us to see. That world is more about cynicism and illusion than about glamor. Jack doesn't write about sports. Jack tells his father he's not interested, but the money proves irresistible.
Gamblers are addicted to risk-taking.
Croupiers and casino owners, on the other hand, are addicted to security. They know the house will win in the long run, and their job is to make sure it stays that way. A croupier lives by rules many would regard as too restrictive. Sex with another croupier or anyone else who works in the casino is verboten. If he sees another croupier cheating, he must report it.