Rounders

Still enjoying the limelight from his film ‘Good Will Hunting’, Matt Damon should be praised for his next role in ‘Rounders’. Indeed, the young star was still not yet thirty when the film was made, which proves his acting capabilities.
‘Rounders’ is set in the context of the professional poker scene in New York City. Damon, who plays Mike McDermott, is a law student with much ambition. However, when the sun sets, Mike gives in to his cravings and turns to professional gambling. As a ‘rounder’ Mike boasts a natural feeling for the cards, an instinct that helps him lose $30,000. He shares the spotlight with Edward Norton, who plays Mike’s friend, Worm. Worm too suffers from a large gambling debt but his slimy character is happy to pass the debt to Mike in a plan to win back the money.
However, the spanner in the works is Worm’s persistent cheating, which causes them to both lose, right from the start.
Damon’s outstanding performance is matched only by that of Norton. Damon’s character is filled with arbitrary and contradictory impulses, which make him intriguing and attractive to audiences. While Norton’s performance is reminiscent of Robert De Niro’s in the movie, ‘Mean Streets’, John Malkovich is also praiseworthy for his impressive Russian accent and classy acting.
Unfortunately, the film’s conclusion falls short of its promising start, worthy actors and stylish direction.
In fact, while several critics agree that ‘Rounders’ takes audiences on a lively tour of professional poker, it is criticised for its endless hedged bets and somewhat disappointing ending.