Runner Runner is far from a great film, to be sure. The main character is not set up well nor is he developed particularly well. The whole industry of internet gambling is not explained adequately, nor is the complex system of cash payoffs that basically constitute most of the movie, which gives the film very little texture and leaves it resting entirely on simplistic plot points involving various types of betrayal or potential betrayal. Many parts of the story feel a bit strained or unbelievable. And the film leans a good bit on its narration. In the end there is a kind of mechanical feel to the movie, and little in the film truly surprises.

But it has its pluses. The character of the gangster is refreshingly understated and real, and Ben Affleck gives a very restrained, believable performance. And the film paints a nice, rather unflattering picture of the disgusting way the ultra rich operate, which is why the film is getting such bad reviews. Justin Timberlake is an actor who is slowly growing on me, and he does a nice job here, including his narration. Despite its problems, the overall story is entertaining enough, not uninteresting, and holds your attention. Both my wife and I found it enjoyable.

I’ve seen way worse films than Runner Runner this year. Give it a try, if you’re in the mood for fairly low-key and dignified gangster-type stuff.