Игрок (1974)

"Igrok" (The Gambler) is a unique portrayal of a man who becomes addicted to gambling, leading to his downfall. Released in 1974 and directed by Karel Reisz, the film takes place in America and stars James Caan as Axel Freed, a brilliant literature professor who becomes hooked on playing high-stakes gambling games. The film explores the psychological toll of gambling addiction, as Axel spirals out of control and loses everything in his pursuit of the thrill of the game. He risks everything, including his relationships, career, and even his life, to satisfy his addiction. Reisz's direction creates a tense and moody atmosphere, with scenes shot in dark and gloomy settings that reflect Axel's mental state. The soundtrack, featuring the iconic song "The Thrill Is Gone" by B.B. King, reinforces the sense of doom and despair. The film's title "Igrok" translates to "gambler" in English, but it is much more than a simple drama about addiction and gambling. It is a poignant character study that shows the tragic consequences of one man's obsession with risk-taking and the depths to which addiction can lead.