21
Sunday, April 27, 2008

Saw this film last night. I had to get out of the house, and this seemed to be the only interesting thing available.

The title of this movie, 21, has two meanings. Our protagonist, Ben Campbell portrayed by Jim Sturgess (Gosh, he is so cute), turns 21 and gets the education of his life at the game of 21 (and life). This movie is brought to you by Bret Ratner, director of Rush Hour and final of the recent X-Men franchise, X-Men: The Last Stand.

Synopsis of movie: a brilliant math-whiz at MIT is lured into a card counting scheme by his professor (Kevin Spacey), and another student (Kate Bosworth). Based on a true story by Ben Mezrich, author of Bringing Down the House.

The real genius is actually an Asian guy. Jeff Ma is the original blackjack card counter. I guess Hollywood figured we would only come out to see the movie if it's about an attractive, really smart, white guy.

Alrighty, then. It's a fun film, expect the usual Hollywood spin, a bit of a happy ending with a bit of reality tossed in. It is not Good Will Hunting and certainly isn't trying to be.

The film is a great advertisement for Las Vegas. I ain't mad at 'em. It makes me want to go, whenever I see anything about that city. Being a high roller is a great fringe benefit, but one can be broke and still enjoy the place.

The only thing that irked me about the movie was the idea that the girl Ben was interested in was "pretty." It's an emaciated Kate Bosworth! She looks like she's been under the knife a few times. I could tell that she was sporting blue contact lens. But hey, an actress has to do what she has to do.

As always Kevin Spacey and Laurence Fishburne turn in stellar performances. I bet a director never has to work too hard with these guys. Just aim the camera and let 'em rip.

Did I mention that Jim Sturgess is cute?

Labels: 21, Ben Mezrich, black jack, Bret Ratner, card games, Good Will Hunting, Jim Sturgess, Kate Bosworth, Kevin Spacey, Las Vegas, Laurence Fishburne

posted by GoldenAh
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