The Card Counter 2021
"He's Playing the Hand He Was Dealt."
Paul Schrader's *The Card Counter (2021)* follows William Tell, a disciplined card player whose solitary life on the casino circuit takes a dramatic turn when he crosses paths with Cirk, a disillusioned young man consumed by vengeance.
Director: Paul Schrader
Cast
Oscar Isaac
William Tell
Tiffany Haddish
La Linda
Tye Sheridan
Cirk
Willem Dafoe
Gordo
Alexander Babara
Mr. USA
Bobby C. King
Slippery Joe
Ekaterina Baker
Sara
Bryan Truong
Minnesota
Dylan Flashner
Sergeant Hoskins
Adrienne Lau
Crystal
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Card Counter (2021) about?
The film centers on William Tell, a former military interrogator turned blackjack player, who finds his quiet life disrupted when he meets Cirk—a troubled young man seeking revenge against a military colonel. As Tell tries to guide Cirk toward a better path, his own demons resurface, forcing him to confront a past he can't outrun.
Who directed The Card Counter?
Paul Schrader, known for his collaborations with Martin Scorsese and films like *Taxi Driver*, directs *The Card Counter*. The movie showcases his signature blend of existential tension and moral ambiguity.
Who stars in The Card Counter?
The film features Oscar Isaac as William Tell, alongside Tiffany Haddish, Tye Sheridan, Willem Dafoe, and Bobby C. King in pivotal roles.
Is The Card Counter (2021) worth watching?
If you appreciate slow-burn thrillers with deep psychological layers, *The Card Counter* is a compelling watch. Oscar Isaac's performance anchors the film, and Schrader's direction ensures a thought-provoking experience. It's ideal for fans of cerebral crime dramas like *First Reformed* or *The Nice Guys*.
How long is The Card Counter?
The runtime for *The Card Counter* is 111 minutes, offering just enough time to dive into its gripping narrative without overstaying its welcome.
🎥 Trailer
The Card Counter (2021): A Stark Drama of Redemption and Revenge
Paul Schrader's *The Card Counter (2021)* follows William Tell, a disciplined card player whose solitary life on the casino circuit takes a dramatic turn when he crosses paths with Cirk, a disillusioned young man consumed by vengeance. As Tell reluctantly mentors Cirk, their bond forces him to confront the shadows of his own past, especially the dark legacy tied to a military officer whose actions ruined lives. Schrader crafts a tense, morally complex drama where redemption is as elusive as the perfect poker hand.
The film thrives on quiet intensity, blending psychological depth with a slow-burn thriller's edge. With a minimalist score and stark visuals, it immerses viewers in Tell's world—a place where strategy meets desperation, and every bet could unravel everything. Oscar Isaac delivers a standout performance as the emotionally guarded protagonist, while Tiffany Haddish and Willem Dafoe add layers of tension and unpredictability. *The Card Counter* isn't just about cards; it's a meditation on guilt, second chances, and the cost of taking a stand.
