The Movie "The Gambler" Release Timeline
Table of Contents
1. Introduction to "The Gambler"
2. Production Background
3. The Cast and Crew
4. Reception and Impact
5. Cultural Significance
6. The Film's Legacy
7. Trivia and Interesting Facts
8. Regional Release Dates
1. Introduction to "The Gambler"
"The Gambler" is a film that has captivated audiences with its portrayal of a man's descent into the depths of gambling addiction. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the movie stars Robert De Niro in the lead role. Its compelling narrative and strong performances have made it a classic in the world of cinema.
2. Production Background
The film's production began in the late 1970s, with pre-production activities kicking off in 1978. The story was adapted from a novella of the same name by Richard Wright. The production faced various challenges, including finding the right location for the film's setting, which was ultimately settled on the campus of MIT.
3. The Cast and Crew
Robert De Niro delivered a powerful performance as Jim "Ace" Gissendaner, the protagonist. Other notable cast members include Ray Liotta as his friend and confidant, and Charles Martin Smith as the young student who becomes a key figure in the story. The film's crew included cinematographer Robert Richardson, editor Thelma Schoonmaker, and production designer Milton Krasner.
4. Reception and Impact
Upon its release, "The Gambler" received critical acclaim for its raw portrayal of addiction and its intense storytelling. The film's impact extended beyond its initial release, influencing countless films and television shows that have tackled similar themes.
5. Cultural Significance
"The Gambler" has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. It has been studied in film schools and analyzed for its contribution to the genre of drama. The film's exploration of themes such as addiction, redemption, and the human condition has made it a staple in cinematic discussions.
6. The Film's Legacy
"The Gambler" has left a lasting legacy, with many of its scenes and performances being celebrated as some of the best in Scorsese's career. The film has also influenced the way audiences perceive the character of the gambler, with De Niro's portrayal setting a new standard for the role.
7. Trivia and Interesting Facts
- The film was shot in black and white, which was a stylistic choice by Scorsese to emphasize the dark themes of the story.
- Robert De Niro's performance was so intense that he reportedly had to take a break from the film to deal with the emotional toll.
- The real-life MIT campus was used as the setting for the film, and the actors were required to undergo a special training program to ensure they could realistically portray their roles.
8. Regional Release Dates
The release of "The Gambler" varied by region. Here are some of the key dates:
- United States: November 8, 1979
- United Kingdom: December 21, 1979
- Australia: December 27, 1979
- Canada: December 21, 1979
- West Germany: February 1, 1980
- France: March 5, 1980
- Italy: January 18, 1980
- Japan: February 16, 1980
- Spain: February 16, 1980
- Sweden: February 16, 1980
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Questions and Answers
1. Q: Who directed "The Gambler"?
A: Martin Scorsese directed "The Gambler."
2. Q: What is the main theme of "The Gambler"?
A: The main theme of "The Gambler" is the devastating effects of gambling addiction.
3. Q: Who plays the lead role in "The Gambler"?
A: Robert De Niro plays the lead role as Jim "Ace" Gissendaner.
4. Q: Where was the film shot?
A: The film was primarily shot at the campus of MIT in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
5. Q: What is the film's runtime?
A: "The Gambler" has a runtime of approximately 124 minutes.
6. Q: Did "The Gambler" win any awards?
A: While "The Gambler" was critically acclaimed, it did not win any major awards.
7. Q: How did the film's release date differ in other countries?
A: The release dates varied by region, with some countries receiving the film earlier than others.
8. Q: What was the budget for "The Gambler"?
A: The budget for "The Gambler" was reported to be around $6 million.
9. Q: Who wrote the original novella that "The Gambler" was adapted from?
A: The novella was written by Richard Wright.
10. Q: How did "The Gambler" influence future films?
A: "The Gambler" has influenced future films by setting a high standard for the portrayal of addiction and its impact on characters.
