As Iconic Poker Movie Tuns 25 Here are Five Reasons Why Rounders is a True Masterpiece
When it comes to Hollywood depictions of sporting movies, or indeed, in this case, in relation to other pastimes such as poker, there is a sense that the truly great films that cover these very niche
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subjects and worlds are hugely outnumbered by less successful attempts to show these environments and industries and when it comes to downright classics, that number becomes even smaller.
Perhaps the reason for this relative lack of success is due to the fact that those who love these sports and pastimes are very tough audiences to win over, but when a film does an astounding job of appeasing this fanbase, they then earn the loyal backing that never diminishes.
One movie in this mold that really hits home with poker fans is Rounders, and even now, more than 25 years after its release, it’s a film that engenders great love and respect. Fans of the film who are looking for the best online poker options can check out this insightful WSOP review outlining the key reasons why they remain a leader in the field.
So why is Rounders still so fondly recalled by fans and critics alike? Here are a few reasons we believe the film still stands up to scrutiny.
Very Rewatchable
There are some movies that are just infinitely rewatchable. You know, the types of movies that you can stumble upon at any point in the film and still look to watch, even though you’ve seen them a million times before.
It’s a fun roller coaster ride and is well-rounded. It knows precisely what lane it’s in and sticks within it.
Great Script
The script, written by David Levien and Brian Koppelman, is a breezy, direct and effective one and hits all the right notes in terms of the world that is being created and the way in which we, as viewers, take in what’s going on with the overall character of the lead, namely Mike McDermott (played by Matt Damon)
Astounding Performances
The list of top acting talents in the movie is long and impressive. Matt Damon plays the lead well, and Edward Norton as ‘Worm’ is a car wreck that sucks you in. The likes of Martin Landau and John Turturro are marvellous, as are Famke Janssen and Gretchen Mol.
However, it will always be John Malkovich’s performance as Teddy “KGB” that ends up being most discussed by those who have seen the movie. His playing of the part is gloriously over the top, almost to the point of parody, to the extent that anyone else attempting to portray the character in the same way would be laughed offset (and not in a good way)
On the Money
As far as depictions of sports and pastimes, Rounders does an excellent job. It doesn’t bog everyone down with jargon and it’s a good film from the perspective of walking a novice through the world in a way that is easily digested, natural and serves the plot.
Depicts Flaws and Addiction In a Relatively Light But Effective Way
Perhaps what Rounders does best, and why the movie is the kind of film you can return to so often, is that when it takes us to the darker sides, such as Worm’s failings that put his life in danger and the obvious addictive patterns that can impact on a poker player, it does so in a way that is still light. It does so because doing it in a more abrupt and violent manner would not fit with the film’s approach and is just not necessary.