The uber geeks

Movie Review: 21

Before I get to the review of 21, I want to comment on the theatre experience I had on the particular night I saw the movie. I went this Friday, which was also the first night of Prom Night. Never in my life have a seen so many tweens (is this even used anymore?) and young teens in one place in my life. I couldn’t scratch my neck without accidentally slapping some thirteen-year-old on the back of his head, conveniently attached to a cell phone. Which is another thing, why does every kid have a cell phone now? Are their lives so hectic they need a cellular phone to keep in touch with people? Anyway, on to the review.

I can’t remember how many times I’ve seen Kevin Spacey playing a professor. It’s been often enough that he is becoming synonymous with the role, like Billy Bob Thornton as a drunk, philandering buffoon. But that’s fine; it works and Kevin Spacey is still solid. Jim Sturgess plays the vulnerable college student well. They really tried to bring it to the audience’s attention that he was supposed to appear vulnerable or innocent, but it only seemed to bring attention to itself in the beginning. All the other actors have their roles and moments and work just fine as a supporting cast.

The story is based on a true story about some MIT students who count cards and make loads of money in Las Vegas. Of course, the events don’t all really happen and it’s mostly Hollywood-ized. Regardless, it’s a good plot with a lot of commentary on a wide variety of subjects. College issues, gambling, character studies, revenge, and a love story thrown into the mix. It’s also pretty smart. Everything makes sense, and they do a pretty decent job of making the whole premise as believable as possible. There was only one event that left me scratching my head over the motivation behind a choice. It wasn’t even all that important, but Kevin Spacey’s character made a decision or two that seemed to be completely out of his character.

There isn’t anything really new here. All the actors put in their performances, the plot delivers on most of its promises, and in the end I was pretty happy I’d seen it. Definitely worth a watch on DVD, or if you’re looking for something to watch, I’d suggest it over 10,000 B.C. or Prom Night.

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