The Cooler

The Cooler DVD VIDEO MOVIE William H. Macy Alec Baldwin Las Vegas casino drama  

Movie 

DVD 

Lionsgate Films 

DVD 

$13.99
Packaging
THE COOLER FYC (FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION)

The Cooler is a gripping drama film released in 2003, featuring an outstanding performance by William H. Macy. This film is a fascinating exploration of luck, love, and redemption set in the vibrant yet gritty world of a Las Vegas casino. Directed by Wayne Kramer, this film serves as both a character study and a commentary on the nature of fortune and its impact on personal lives.

William H. Macy plays the role of Bernie Lootz, a "cooler" in the casino—a man whose very presence is believed to bring bad luck to players. Long considered an essential part of the casino's operations, Bernie is employed to sit with gamblers on hot streaks, thereby jinxing them and restoring balance to the casino's profits. His character is complex and deeply flawed, providing a poignant look at the depths of despair and the challenge of breaking free from one's past.

Key Themes and Motifs:

The narrative explores several significant themes, including:

Luck and Fortune: The film examines how luck can influence individual lives, creating a delicate balance between success and failure.

Redemption: Bernie’s journey is one of seeking redemption and reclaiming a sense of self-worth amidst the chaos of his life.

Love and Relationships: The budding romance between Bernie and Natalie, played by Maria Bello, offers a glimpse of hope and the possibility of change.

Supporting Characters:

In addition to Macy, the film features a strong supporting cast that enriches the storytelling:

Alec Baldwin portrays Shelly Kaplow, the ruthless casino manager who embodies the cutthroat nature of the gambling world and acts as a formidable antagonist to Bernie.

Maria Bello plays Natalie, a waitress who offers Bernie a chance at a new life and challenges him to confront his demons.

Paul Sorvino appears as a wise old gambler, providing comic relief as well as insights into the philosophy of gambling and life.

Critical Reception:

Upon its release, The Cooler received favorable reviews, particularly for the performances of its lead actors. William H. Macy’s portrayal of Bernie was praised for its emotional depth, capturing the character’s despair and yearning for connection. Critics noted that Baldwin’s performance added a layer of menace, contributing to the film’s tension.

Conclusion:

Overall, The Cooler combines rich character development with evocative themes that resonate with audiences. It stands out as a memorable film in Macy's career and the broader film landscape of the early 2000s. If you appreciate stories of struggle, chance, and the striving for redemption, this film is a compelling watch that will linger in your mind long after the credits roll.

For DVD Player (North American NTSC)

WHAT YOU GET:

This item is for the original media, and includes only the media (ie. CD, floppy ...) UNLESS specifically stated above and/or in the title. If more than just the media is included, it will state which items are (ie. box, manual, etc ). Items that come in a sleeve refer to a generic CD sleeve (typically white) and will be sent with shipping protection to avoid damage during transit. If available, we will also send the front and/or back CD inserts if in stock. If these are important to you, please message us to verify we have them available to send. Please do not assume items are included other than what's stated. Again, ask questions PRIOR to purchasing if you have any concerns.

IMAGES:

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COMPATIBILITY:

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PLATFORM:

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Macintosh Systems:
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MEDIA FORMAT:

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RECOMMENDATIONS FOR A SMOOTH PURCHASE:

  • Ask questions PRIOR to purchasing an order to avoid any confusion.
  • Be patient if there are problems during installation or gameplay. Typically someone else has already ran into that problem and has listed a solution online. Contact us and we will do our best to help.
  • Be sure to update your video card drivers and search for updates to the game from the manufacturer.


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