The Rewatchables: 'The Gambler' (2014) with Bill Simmons and Chris Ryan
Release Date: December 17, 2024
Introduction
In this engaging episode of The Rewatchables, host Bill Simmons and guest Chris Ryan delve deep into the 2014 film The Gambler, starring Mark Wahlberg. Despite its initial lukewarm reception both commercially and critically, Simmons and Ryan explore why The Gambler has become a rewatchable favorite for many movie enthusiasts. Skipping over the advertisements and introductory segments, the conversation primarily focuses on the movie's themes, character development, and performances.
Background and Initial Impressions
Bill Simmons begins by recounting his own journey with The Gambler. Initially indifferent, he admits, "I watched the first 40 minutes. Slow start." (02:23), but after rewatching it multiple times, his perspective shifted dramatically. Chris Ryan echoes this sentiment, noting that while the film didn't make a significant impact upon its release, it "has this whole second life and it's been on cable a lot" (04:45).
Character Analysis and Performances
A significant portion of the discussion centers around Mark Wahlberg's portrayal of Jim Bennett, a self-destructive professor battling gambling addiction. Simmons questions Wahlberg's suitability for the role: "Mark Wahlberg as an actor... you can make a case he's the perfect actor for this movie. And you could make a case that there's 20 actors you would rather have in this movie" (06:04). Ryan adds that Wahlberg's trajectory shifted post-The Gambler, moving towards more mainstream, less serious roles.
John Goodman and Michael K. Williams also receive commendation for their roles. Goodman’s portrayal of the loan shark Frank is highlighted as "incredible" (22:48), while Williams' character Omar is described as having "really interesting human connection" (16:16). The duo discusses how these supporting roles elevate the film despite its flaws.
Themes and Storytelling
Simmons and Ryan dissect the movie’s core themes, noting it grapples with existential questions and the struggle between honesty and self-destruction. Ryan emphasizes, "It's a movie about ideas... how to live honestly, what people need to do to live successfully" (05:20), suggesting that multiple viewings are necessary to fully appreciate the dense dialogue and philosophical underpinnings.
The protagonists' journey is seen as a quest for meaning amidst chaos, with Simmons articulating the central conflict: "This is a movie about somebody who wants to obliterate himself, to rebuild himself" (11:03). They discuss how Jim’s inability to find fulfillment in a conventional life leads him down a path of ruin, highlighting scenes where his interactions reveal his deep-seated desire for genuine emotion and connection.
Cinematography and Direction
Rupert Wyatt’s direction and Greg Frazier’s cinematography receive praise for capturing Los Angeles's underbelly. The hosts appreciate the "great photography" and the authentic depiction of secret gambling dens (24:49). They draw parallels with other films like John Wick and Heat, admiring how The Gambler creates a "mini world inside a city we already think we know" (18:03).
Critiques and Weak Points
Despite its strengths, the film is not without its shortcomings. Simmons criticizes Wahlberg’s delivery in pivotal scenes, suggesting his performance sometimes veers into "unintentional comedy" (07:12). They also point out inconsistencies in the gambling strategies depicted, with Ryan mentioning, "There's actually not a lot of juice to the gambling scenes" (16:28).
Another point of contention is the relationship between Jim and Brie Larson’s character, which the hosts find less believable. Simmons questions, "I don't know why Brie Larson's character would like Jim" (35:02), highlighting a disconnect in their on-screen chemistry.
Notable Quotes and Memorable Scenes
Several memorable quotes from the film are discussed, underscoring the movie’s thematic resonance:
- Frank (John Goodman): "A wise man's life is based around fuck you. The United States of America is based on fuck you." (44:34)
- Jim Bennett (Mark Wahlberg): "I am just trying to win everything I can or go broke."
Key scenes analyzed include Jim’s philosophical lectures, the high-stakes blackjack games, and his emotional breakdown at the beginning. Simmons and Ryan highlight how these moments encapsulate the film's exploration of truth, self-destruction, and the quest for authenticity.
Legacy and Rewatchability
In wrapping up, Simmons and Ryan reflect on the film's enduring appeal despite its initial reception. They agree that The Gambler offers rich material for rewatching, allowing audiences to uncover deeper layers with each view. Goodman’s and Williams’ performances, in particular, are cited as reasons to revisit the movie repeatedly.
Simmons concludes, "This movie has great themes and thoughts in it... it's a good place" (101:19), emphasizing that the film's philosophical depth and character-driven narrative make it a worthy addition to The Rewatchables archive.
Conclusion
Bill Simmons and Chris Ryan provide a thorough and nuanced exploration of The Gambler, highlighting its complex characters, thematic depth, and compelling performances. While acknowledging its flaws, they present The Gambler as a film that rewards multiple viewings, offering insights into human behavior, honesty, and the pursuit of meaning. This episode serves as a testament to the movie's unexpected appeal and its place among the rewatchable classics.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Bill Simmons (02:25): "Slow. Slow start."
- Chris Ryan (05:20): "It's a movie about ideas... how to live honestly, what people need to do to live successfully."
- Frank (John Goodman) (44:34): "A wise man's life is based around fuck you. The United States of America is based on fuck you."
- Jim Bennett (Mark Wahlberg) (30:23): "Life's a losing proposition. You might as well get used to it."
Key Themes and Insights
- Existential Struggle: The protagonist's quest for meaning amidst self-destructive behavior.
- Honesty vs. Self-Deception: Jim’s unwavering honesty contrasts with others’ self-deceptions.
- Character Depth: Strong supporting roles add layers to the narrative.
- Cinematography and Setting: Authentic portrayal of Los Angeles’s underground gambling scene.
- Rewatchability: Multiple layers and dense dialogue encourage repeated viewings.
Final Thoughts
The Gambler stands as a thought-provoking film that, despite its initial reception, offers substantial material for analysis and appreciation. Through Bill Simmons and Chris Ryan's insightful discussion, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the movie's intricate themes and compelling performances, reaffirming its status as a rewatchable classic.