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Before hitting
the big time with his second film Boogie Nights and then later Magnolia, young
filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson impressed critics with this deftly conceived,
low-budget film noir. With its minimalist plot, deliberate pacing, and brief,
but shocking bursts of violence, Hard Eight will please the serious film
voyeur. A first-rate cast putting in a top performance.
What is good
about this film is the way you don't expect anything and are continually moved
on to the next scene. Its unassuming and unimposing at all times, you don't
have to believe the impossible at any stage. There are no super-human feats of
endevour or bravery.
Hard Eight is the name for one particular bet in
the casino game craps. Sydney,
the main character, is renowned for his big bets on hard-eight. That's
unimportant but setting the film in Reno Nevada, a casino town, is
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| All the characters are
true to the place in which we find them, the key to a believable film. The film
flows through unexpected turns into an enjoyable noir flick, one of those that
didn't even get a release to cinema in Britain. |
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Sydney is the main player.
His character is double edged being both well manered and tough. He helps a guy
(John) down on his luck and takes him to Reno to show how its possible for
someone to get free room and board by pretending to be a big slot player. After
success in the casino Sydney introduces John to people who can give him work.
John experiences better fortune and begins to relax.
Its here that John
begins to meet people who can distract him and lead him astray. Sydney is there
to help when things get tough. More details would give the film away so see for
yourself. |
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| Director |
Paul Thomas
Anderson |
Philip
Baker Hall |
Sydney |
| Writing |
Paul Thomas
Anderson |
John C.
Reilly |
John Finnegan
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| Cinematography |
Robert
Elswit |
Gwyneth
Paltrow |
Clementine
'Clem' |
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