Review of Owning Mahowny (2003) by Nicholas C — 27 Sep 2008

An unblinkingly honest portrait of a man consumed by addiction. The film make the audience feel the building tension of the protagonist but is not entirely effective at creating a sense of empathy. Perhaps this was the intention, but the viewer's attention can be stretched by the repetitive and stressful nature of the plotline. Phillip Seymour Hoffman's excellent as we have come to expect.

If you are expecting a glamorous tale of gambling excess (Rounders), an exciting poker/blackjack game (i.e. A Big Hand for the Little Lady) or a genius gambling technique (i.e. 21) as I was, you will be disappointed. This is a very honest (and therefore depressing) look at the world of addicted gambling.