The Card Counter

        

     This new Independent drama, written and directed by Paul Schrader, stars Oscar Isaac as Mr. Schrader's quintessential loner and anti-hero. Providing the voice over narration (a Schrader trademark), Mr. Isaac's character, William Tell, spends his days drifting from town to town and casino to casino, playing Blackjack and Poker. In prison for eight years, he has learned how to count cards and perfect his playing skills.

     Mr. Isaac's performance is riveting. His character is mysterious and magnetic. The plot is a bit strange as what starts out as a gambling drama turns into something far more and if it wasn't for Mr. Isaac, the film probably would lose its emotional impact. 

     The film co-stars Tiffany Haddish, in what I believe is her first serious role. She is very good and has great chemistry with Mr. Isaac. Also co-starring is Tye Sheridan, as a young man William takes under his wing and Willem Dafoe in a small but important role.

     Mr. Schrader uses the backdrop of casino gambling to once again explore man's morality and his deliberate pacing and slow reveal of plot points may be maddening for some, but it does come together and leaves the viewer with a punch to the gut.