First Look At Russell Crowe’s Newest Film Poker Face
It’s set to be a busy year for Russell Crowe. Aside from his Marvel debut—the successful Thor: Love and Thunder—already set to stream on Disney Plus later this month, the Aussie actor is already gearing up for his next theatrical release. Produced by Arclight Films, Poker Face is set to be Crowe’s last film for the year.
What Is It About?
As the name indicates, Poker Face is centered around the iconic game and the intense interactions that can happen around the poker table. Leading the film we have Crowe, who plays tech billionaire Jake who happens to love poker. Together with his childhood friends, Jake hosts a high-stakes poker game at his Miami estate. Unfortunately for Jake’s guests, the ultra-rich gambler is also a skilled a player in the game of life. Beneath the surface of the poker game, Jake has concocted an elaborate plan where his friends must reveal their darkest secrets for a chance to win more money than they can count. As if this sinister poker match wasn’t dangerous enough, a home invader comes to up the ante.
Is It Worth Watching?
The film is quite blatantly anchored on poker, so it’s safe to assume that there will be quite a few poker terms and references used throughout. Thus, while the writers have certainly adapted them in a way that even laypersons can understand, it’ll probably be more enjoyable for those who know how to play poker. So, real-life poker players are more likely to understand the weight of certain flops, bluffs, and hands. That said, there is also more to look forward to in this film than just the poker content.
Featuring a star-studded cast, Crowe stars alongside Wu-Tang Clan’s RZA, and real-life in-laws Liam Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky. All three of Crowe’s main co-stars have honed their acting chops in other big-name action films like Hunger Games, G.I. Joe: Retaliation, and Fast & Furious 6. Directed and co-written by Crowe himself, this marks the Gladiator star’s second time leading a film’s production, which bodes well for long-time fans. Shot entirely in New South Wales, viewers can also look forward to some stunning cinematography throughout. If however, you’re doubtful about the ability of a card game-based film to hold up the excitement, maybe you’d prefer fellow Marvel alum Jeff Goldblum’s recently-released Jurassic World: Dominion which we spoke about here.
That said, the majority of Poker Face’s premise is still in the dark. After all, Arclight has yet to share an official trailer. For all we know, the movie may prove to be much more nuanced than the first look initially indicates. If this is the case, paired with the cast’s undeniable talent, then Poker Face may be another cinematic win for the iconic Australian actor.
When Is It Coming Out?
To date, there is no specific release date for Poker Face. Following production delays due to COVID in 2021, producers have assured the public that it will be released sometime in 2022. Whether it will be shown in international theaters or on streaming sites, is yet to be determined.
