Two For the Money (2005)

This would have been perfect for my tribute to Al Pacino a few years ago. 

Synopsis: Idealistic young man travels to New York and takes a job with Al Pacino, who corrupts his protégé’s soul with money, fame and beautiful women. Oh, wait – that’s the Synopsis for The Devil’s Advocate! 

Blurb From the DVD Jacket: “Academy Award winner Al Pacino and Matthew McConaughey star in this adrenaline-charged thriller about the sexy, high-stakes world of sports betting, where fortunes can be made and lost with a flip of a coin.” [Um... I really wouldn’t call this film a “thriller”]

 

What Did I Learn?: Apparently, people become gambling addicts because deep down, they really enjoy losing. 

You Might Like This Movie If: You would watch Pacino in anything.

 

Really?: 1) So, Pacino and Rene Russo are the parents of a small girl? Um....I’m not buying that one. 2) Hold on....one of the men at the table with Alexandria (a high-priced call girl who Brandon is challenged to seduce) is soon revealed to be one of Walter’s top analysts, yet this is never mentioned, and the truth about that evening is revealed much later in the film. 

Rating: Two For the Money is a formulaic (well, except that there’s no love interest for McConaughey’s characters), simplistic and forgettable drama that’s populated with unlikeable characters. Moreover, McConaughey has no on-screen chemistry with either of his co-stars. I cannot recommend this movie. 3/10 stars. 

Would it Work For a Bad Movie Night?: No, but take a drink every time Pacino decides to yell his lines. 

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0417217/?ref_=rvi_tt