Review of 21 (2008) by Mloy X — 10 Sep 2013

Micky Rosa (Kevin Spacey): Well, let's just say a spot opened up on our roster.

Ben Campbell (Jim Sturgess): How?

Micky Rosa (Kevin Spacey): Jimmy got a job at Google.

Ben Campbel (Jim Sturgess)l: Jim... Jimmy got a job at Google?

Micky Rosa (Kevin Spacey): Yeah, it's catchy, I know.

Ben Campbell (Jim Sturgess): Well, if you're making so much money at this then why did he take it?

Micky Rosa (Kevin Spacey): Ben, I said Google, not Sizzler.

First, I read that there was some disappointment with this film over the decision to go with a predominantly Caucasian cast, when in real life most of the members of the team were of Asian descent. I mean, I understand the thinking behind the decision-- to make the cast more appealing to mainstream audiences but "The Joy Luck Club" or "Life of Pi" managed to garner an audience despite having mostly minorities in the lead roles; but, whatever. It's all water under the bridge now. On the plus side, the actors they did cast for the roles did a pretty good job: Kevin Spacey rarely gives a disappointing performance and Jim Sturgess is a pretty talented up and coming (I loved him in Across The Universe), Kate Bosworth was tolerable and it's always a treat to watch Liza Lapira because she's such a scene stealer. The rest of the supporting cast was pretty credible too. The premise of the film was intriguing (I have a soft spot for Casino heists having worked in one in the past. In a casino I mean, not in a heist). The conclusion was a little convenient but satisfying my need for closure, so I guess it was all good. Overall, this movie was formulaic but still entertaining enough to keep me tuned-in;so yeah, I would watch it again if it was on the tube, despite the casting controversy. ;).