Molly’s Game – Film Review

Molly’s Game, the 2017 cinematic tour de force directed by Aaron Sorkin, is a dramatic retelling of the true story of Molly Bloom, a former Olympic-class skier who ran the world’s most exclusive high-stakes poker game for a decade before being arrested by FBI agents in the middle of the night. Jessica Chastain embodies Molly with an unparalleled vigor and sharpness, bringing to life a character whose brilliance and determination are as large as the risks she takes. With a screenplay also penned by Sorkin, the film marks his directorial debut, demonstrating his familiar rapid-fire dialogue and intricate storytelling that fans of his previous works, such as The Social Network and The West Wing, will find comfortably familiar yet refreshingly innovative.

At the heart of Molly’s Game lies the enigmatic figure of Molly Bloom herself, around whom the entire narrative orbits with magnetic fascination. Chastain delivers one of the most powerful performances of her career, capturing the complexity of a woman who is at once vulnerable and invincible, strategic and spontaneous. The screenplay delves deep into Molly’s psyche, exploring her motivations and the circumstances that led her from the ski slopes to the opulent hotel suites where millions of dollars exchanged hands over poker tables. Through flashbacks interwoven with present-day interrogations, Sorkin crafts a non-linear narrative that maintains tension and intrigue, while also affording moments of introspection and character development.

Idris Elba, portraying Molly’s lawyer Charlie Jaffey, brings a captivating gravitas to the screen, serving as the moral compass of the story. His skepticism towards Molly gradually gives way to respect and admiration, mirroring the audience’s journey as the layers of her story are peeled away to reveal the resilience and integrity at its core. The chemistry between Chastain and Elba is electric, providing a compelling contrast to the high-stakes world of poker that Molly navigates with such aplomb.

The supporting cast, including Kevin Costner as Molly’s demanding father and Michael Cera as Player X, a composite character representing the celebrities and business titans who frequented Molly’s games, delivers equally compelling performances. Costner, in particular, shines in a pivotal scene that provides crucial insight into Molly’s relentless pursuit of success and acceptance. Meanwhile, Cera plays against type, offering a chilling glimpse into the predatory instincts lurking beneath the surface of the game’s most charismatic players.

Visually, Molly’s Game is slick and sophisticated, with cinematography by Charlotte Bruus Christensen that captures the glittering allure of high-stakes poker and the shadowy figures who populate this world. The editing, led by Alan Baumgarten, keeps the pace brisk and engaging, seamlessly transitioning between the adrenaline-fueled poker games and the more introspective moments of Molly’s journey.

However, Molly’s Game is not without its flaws. At times, the film’s reliance on voice-over narration to convey complex legal and poker terminology feels heavy-handed, interrupting the flow of the narrative. Moreover, while Sorkin’s signature dialogue dazzles with its wit and velocity, it occasionally verges on being too dense, potentially alienating viewers who are not as familiar with the intricacies of poker or the legal machinations that ensue.

Additionally, the film’s exploration of gender dynamics within the predominantly male world of poker is both a strength and a limitation. While Molly’s Game commendably highlights the misogyny and exploitation Molly faces, it sometimes falls short of fully examining the implications of these themes, instead favoring a more surface-level treatment that leaves deeper analysis wanting.

Despite these shortcomings, Molly’s Game is a riveting and intelligent film that captivates from beginning to end. Sorkin’s direction is confident and assured, showcasing his ability to craft compelling narratives that are as thought-provoking as they are entertaining. Chastain’s portrayal of Molly Bloom is a tour-de-force, elevating the film to remarkable heights with her sheer talent and charisma.

Ultimately, Molly’s Game is a testament to the power of storytelling, the allure of risk, and the unyielding strength of a woman who refused to be defined by the odds stacked against her. It is a film that dazzles and inspires, offering a captivating glimpse into a world few of us will ever encounter but all can appreciate for its portrayal of the indomitable human spirit.

Molly’s Game achieves a near-perfect balance of style and substance, marred only slightly by its occasional lapses into over-explanation and an underexplored exploration of its more thematic elements.