The Gambler

Jim Bennett (Mark Wahlberg) is a risk taker. Both an English professor and a high-stakes gambler, Bennett bets it all when he borrows from a gangster (Michael Kenneth Williams) and offers his own life as collateral. Always one step ahead, Bennett pits his creditor against the operator of a gambling ring (Alvin Ing) and leaves his dysfunctional relationship with his wealthy mother (Jessica Lange) in his wake. He plays both sides, immersing himself in an illicit, underground world while garnering the attention of Frank (John Goodman), a loan shark with a paternal interest in Bennett's future. As his relationship with a student (Brie Larson) deepens, Bennett must take the ultimate risk for a second chance...

This was a fun watch.  Wahlberg's acting was great enough to keep you hooked and wanting to see how it all plays out.  The best part of the movie was his interaction with the multiple casino bosses and bookies.  John Goodman stood out the most and every time his character spoke with Wahlberg was the best scenes in the movie.

I'd recommend people checking this out.   There is no rush.  It's not a must see or anything, but it's an enjoyable watch.