Based on a book and an apparently true story, this is about six M.I.T. students who, with the help of their professor Micky, create a system for counting cards so they can win at BlackJack. Taking their knowledge to Vegas with Ben as the lead better, they take the casinos for millions. But that isn’t enough and when they push the limits Cole, a security expert, catches on to the game and becomes determined to catch them.
Jim Sturgess (Ben), Kevin Spacey (Prof. Micky), Kate Bosworth (Jill), Aaron Yoo (Choi), Liza Lapira (Kianna), Jacob Pitts (Fisher), Laurence Fishburne (Cole).
It is unclear how historically accurate the story is, and it really doesn't matter much. As the story was told in the film it was quite enjoyable and interesting. The card counting theory is a challenge to understand but again it isn't needed to enjoy the film, the concept is enough. Starting off a bit slow, the movie first got interesting during character development then exciting once the game playing started, and the suspense kicked in once Vegas security started chasing the students. With a couple of nice twists at the end, that were broadcast well before they were seen, even the ending was nicely done.
Acting was fairly well done all around although Spacey did a very nice job as did Fishburne. Yoo brings good comedy and smiles as usual and played his supporting role perfectly.
Camera work was well done, as were sets, sound, and dialogue. Not a lot of fluff or special effects in this one and they weren’t needed for the story anyway.
A nicely done drama with nothing really earth-shattering, this one is worth watching just for the quality of the film if nothing else. A good description would be that it is a competent entry in the drama category.
Some violence, mild sexual content, and brief nudity so save it for older teens and above.
21 is no longer showing in any Littleton Colorado movie theatres.
Released: 2008
Reviewed: 9.6.11
Star rating: 4 out of 5
copyright ©2011 Dave Riedel
Remember to click on Subscribe and leave comments!
Comments