A Scientist at the Movies Reviews by Greg Paris

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Title: Two for the Money

Date Viewed: 10/15/05

Details:

Al Pacino

Matthew McConaughey

Rene Russo

Armand Assante

Director: D. J. Caruso

Score: 1/2

The Review: It's always fascinating watching Al Pacino channel his latest character, even though they're often similar: edgy, marginally sane, barely controlled, over-the-top, manic, flashy, even occasionally demonic. These aren't necessarily people you'd like to meet, or work with (or work for!), but they're usually interesting. So it is with Walter Abrams, an "advisor" (legal) for college and pro sports betting (illegal). A reformed gambling addict, he has sublimated his past foibles into a money-making business that seems to skirt the edge of legality, and is doing reasonably well until he talent-scouts an injured and passed-over football quarterback Branden Lang (McConaughey), who has a good eye and bold manner. As you might expect, business picks up.

But the plot doesn't necessarily always go in the direction you'd imagine. Good turn (but woefully insufficient screen time) by Russo as Walter's wife Toni, and a dark turn by Assante as a high-end gambler.

Allegedly taken from a "true story."

(15-Oct-05)

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