The Card Counter (2021)

Paul Schrader has been writing profound character studies since "Taxi Driver", which is as far back as I'm familiar with. So don't expect The Card Counter to be spectacular.  Instead, expect it to be slow burning and dripping with atmosphere. Then you'll be as prepared as possible. Oscar Isaac plays "Will Tell," which is a nickname he's given himself. Will travels the country making a modest living as a card counter. He never makes too much at one casino and that way he never causes trouble. He's not even worried about getting caught. Card counting is nothing compared to the skeleton in his closest though, which when revealed early in the film becomes the focal point of this character study. Just like environmental issues are the real deal behind "First Reformed." Gambling, cards, his crazy intellect and dedication, it's all a distraction from his past. I'd love to dive into that topic now but I think it's best experienced during the film if you don't already know. Isaac, Tiffany Haddish, and Tye Sheridan all bring their A game to deliver this great story about redemption.

---