A world premiere followed by a Q&A session and Entertainment Affair was there at the AFI Fest to see it first. Based on the 1974 film by James Toback, writer William Monah and director Rupert Wyatt bring you “The Gambler”. A film that while gambling seems to be the main idea, the story explores far more than just a money exchange. I had the chance to join the actor’s and filmmakers for a roundtable interview and they gave us an insight on this action crime drama.

“He [my agent] talked to me about The Gambler and I was like I don’t want to do a remake. Then I finally read the script and I read it and I realized this is not a remake. This is taking the title and doing something very different with it,” explained director Rupert Wyatt. “The Gambler” follows the life of Jim Bennet, a literature professor and gambler whose debt brings him to borrow money from some of the most dangerous men in town. Mark Wahlberg, a man who never ceases to satisfy with his performances gives exceptional life to his character Jim Bennet. “We knew that we weren’t making a character that was going to necessarily be likeable, but we wanted him to be interesting enough and compelling enough in how brash he was and how unapologetic he was that people would at least find it interesting to see what was going to happen and how it was going to turn out.”

Wahlberg’s character intensifies as the movie reaches its plot. As Bennet finds himself drowning in the debt that may cause him his life he seeks help from Frank, a loan shark who seems to have his best interest. Frank, played by the exceptional John Goodman is an intimidating character who puts the phrase “fuck you” to good use. “I just never really played a guy like this before. I thought it would be kind of fun. I really like the dialogue and I really admire Mark Wahlberg. I really do. I think the world of him and I wanted a chance to work with him,” he said. For an actor who’s had such a distinguished career, he mentions why this character in particular appealed so much to him. “I think after living so long, it’s just the idea of what the guy looks for and this is what you do with your money and everything else is F.U.”

As the story unfolds, we meet Lamar Allen, a college basketball player and student of Bennet who strives on taking care of his family. The relationship between the two gets a little more personal, including a decision that may change both their paths. Nicaraguan Anthony Kelley brings Lamar Allen’s character to life. “It was a hard decision and I think for anybody to really understand, you would have to understand what he was going through or maybe go through what he was going through. I mean his sister had spina bifida, his mom had like a surgery, you know. He’s not sure if he’s gonna make it to the NBA… He’s not the most intelligent guy in school, but he is street smart and I think you’d have to place yourself in his shoes to kind of understand why he made the decision that he made.”

Kelley’s talent transcends and similar to his basketball skills, in acting he too works as a professional. “I was actually pursuing a career in basketball and trying to go overseas… I got the call for open casting from my uncle and my dad convinced me.” The cast also includes Jessica Lange and George Kennedy.

In this action crime drama, the performances are altogether impeccable. The story intensifies with thrill and emotion, and while Bennet is not a hero he’s a real man who finds his way in the most unexpected scenarios. As the ending approaches, audiences are left with a finale that exhilarates with great inspiration.

The Gambler now playing in theaters everywhere.