Dan Mahowny is a mild mannered bank executive with an addiction to gambling. His job gives him access to a 20 million account. When he encounters a losing streak he “borrows” from this account and eventually takes10.2 million dollars over an 18 month period to fuel his gambling addiction.
The story is dark and disturbing as it deals with the subject of gambling addiction. Like most addicts Dan Mahowny is in denial. When confronted by his girl friend about his gambling, he tells "I don't have a gambling problem. I have a financial problem."
What is even more disturbing is the way the greedy casino executives coax and encourage him to remain gambling. At one point the casino flies “the cage” from Atlantic City to Toronto to get a signature which would allow Mahowny money to gambling with. This took place in 1980 and a lot has changed but some of the tactics used by the casinos remain today.
I originally purchased this movie because I enjoy watching to see how accurate casino scenes are portrayed in a movie. The gambling scenes were just a backdrop to the story of this pitiful man who starts the movie as a gambling addict and then spirals down even father in toe the depths of his addiction until he is caught.
This is not a great movie with an entertaining story line but neither is gambling addiction in true life. The fact that it was based on a true story gives it credence and makes it worth watching. I must caution that you will probably not find this story entertaining as it is more of a study in human misery. Phillip Seymour Hoffman, who plays Dan Mahowny does and outstanding job in his portrayal of this poor sole whose life is out of control due to his gambling addiction.
Grade: B
Until Next time remember:
Luck comes and goes.....Knowledge Stays Forever.