Molly's Game

Molly's Game is a riveting portrayal of a woman who thrives in a world dominated by powerful men, driven by an unyielding spirit and razor-sharp intellect. Jessica Chastain delivers a compelling performance as Molly Bloom, capturing both her fierce determination and vulnerable moments with equal finesse. Her portrayal is enhanced by Aaron Sorkin’s quick dialogue, which suits Chastain's strong screen presence perfectly.
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The storytelling in Molly's Game is masterfully done, utilising Molly’s narration and flashbacks to create a dynamic and engaging narrative. The film moves briskly, especially at the beginning, where Molly recounts her past as an Olympic-calibre skier and the freak accident that altered her life's trajectory. Sorkin's script, based on Bloom’s memoir, seamlessly transitions between Molly's present legal battles and her past escapades, providing a comprehensive view of her journey.

Chastain is supported by a talented cast that brings depth to the film's many characters. Idris Elba shines as Charlie Jaffey, Molly's lawyer, whose scepticism gradually turns into respect and admiration for his client. The chemistry between Chastain and Elba is electric, particularly during their rapid-fire exchanges, which are some of the film's most captivating moments. Kevin Costner, as Molly’s demanding father, adds a layer of complexity to Molly’s character, highlighting the personal struggles that drive her ambition. 
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One of the film’s strengths is its ability to make the world of high-stakes poker accessible and thrilling to the audience. Sorkin, through Molly's eyes, introduces the terminology, strategy, and psychology of the game, allowing viewers to learn alongside her. This approach makes the high-tension poker scenes not only comprehensible but also intensely engaging.

However, Molly's Game is not without its flaws. The film's runtime can feel overlong, and certain scenes, particularly those involving Molly's redemption arc with her father, come across as contrived and overly sentimental. These moments, intended as cathartic, sometimes veer into the territory of mansplaining, undermining Molly's autonomy and strength.
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Despite these minor shortcomings, Molly's Game is a well-crafted film that excels in its character-driven drama and sharp, witty dialogue. Chastain's portrayal of Molly Bloom is both formidable and empathetic, making her a character worth rooting for despite her flaws. Sorkin's directorial debut showcases his signature style of intelligent, fast-paced storytelling, making Molly's Game a memorable and thought-provoking film.