Rounders (DVD, 2004)

When I think of current classics, this title certainly jumps to the top of the list! It's one of those movies that seems to get better and better each time you see it. If you haven't seen it, then get the DVD and watch it.

Immediately you will be entrenched by the cinemaphotography. The color and tone of the movie really sets the mood, as this is a movie about back room card games, and the players who are successful at beating them (Rounders).

Christopher Young did an unbelievable job at the musical score... the music really sets the tone throughout (of course this isn't something you're really noticing when you first watch it).

The dialogue is steller, as the writers did their research on this subject very thoroughly. There's plenty of references to some of the greatest poker players in the history of the game, from Doyle Brunson to Johnny Chan. Malkovich's performance is probably his most memorable. Matt Damon is at his best!

Yes, this is a great gambling movie, but the movie's undertone is more of preservering through adversity. It's also about owning up to your true passions in life instead of living by everyone's expectations. Therefore, this movie is a must watch for those of us looking for inspiration in the face of insurmountable odds.