Review of House of Games (1987) by Chris G — 20 Aug 2007
Just revisiting this twisty little film on my new DVD and was pleasantly surprised it still holds up rather well. Mamet's first film is a playful psychological thriller about a therapist who becomes obsessed with a con man and his life style.
The dialogue is great (of course, since it's Mamet) the film flows wonderfully, though Mamet's style in directing is probably a required taste (it took me a few films to just finally accept the somewhat stilted acting.
) Not as good as his later con movie, The Spanish Prisoner, but totally gripping from beginning to end. Fans of the film should pick up the Criterion DVD as it contains a great commentary with Ricky Jay (Mamet's on it as well, by Jay is more interesting.
) Another bonus: A really young William H. Macy plays a small role. "The United States of Kiss my Ass.".
This review of House of Games (1987) was written by Chris G on 20 Aug 2007.
House of Games has generally received positive reviews.
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