Molly's Game
The true story of Molly Bloom, an Olympic-class skier who ran the world's most exclusive high-stakes poker game and became an FBI target.
Hakihiko reviewed
December 16, 2024•
High Stakes and Sharp Wit: A Great Game by Jessica Chastain!
Molly's Game is a sharp, fast-paced drama that keeps you hooked from start to finish, and much of its success is owed to Jessica Chastain's stellar performance. She embodies Molly Bloom with a fierce, magnetic energy, perfectly capturing her character's intelligence, ambition, and vulnerability. Chastain balances the glamorous high-roller world of underground poker with the emotional weight of Bloom's personal struggles, delivering a portrayal that's both captivating and complex.
Aaron Sorkin's script is equally impressive-snappy, clever, and filled with the rapid-fire dialogue he's known for. The film moves with a propulsive energy, with scenes that crackle with tension and wit. While the story of poker might not seem inherently thrilling, Sorkin's screenplay, combined with Chastain's commanding presence, elevates the material to a gripping character study.
The film is occasionally bogged down by exposition, but its tight structure and sharp editing keep it engaging. Supporting performances, particularly from Idris Elba, add depth, but it's Chastain who truly owns the screen.
In short, Molly's Game is a sleek, stylish drama with top-tier acting and a script that crackles with intelligence. An easy watching for anyone who loves character-driven stories with real bite.