My Rating: 3.82/4 (aka Definitely worth it)

One line summary: An aspiring writer gets a job as a croupier in a casino.

The Deets: I am pretty sure we saw this wildly underrated (and probably forgotten) film in an NYC theatre back in 1998 or 99, but don’t hold me to that. It’s also the first movie I remember meeting Clive Owen, and his tall, dark vibe; it wasn’t clear whether he would become a star, but you were intrigued by his presence, you wanted to watch him. He also has a distinct voice, and I recall the voiceover from this film, which British director Mike Hodges uses very effectively; often times a voiceover can go awry, but in this case it serves a clear purpose, letting us peek inside the head of the writer protagonist, and we are drawn in, it propels the story rather than detracts. This is a film that takes place at night, on purpose, and there is a wonderful sinister vibe to it. And the ending is rich and satisfying, it feels earned, and you feel rewarded for your attention.

Perfect for: If you’re in the mood for a character-driven mystery drama that unfolds and you’re not sure where it’s going but you trust it.

Where to watch: Catch it on Amazon Prime – it’s included!

Food pairing: Something minimalist like a bowl of salted nuts.