21

21 is based on the book that was based on the true story of a group of MIT students who developed an elaborate system of card counting and took Vegas for millions at Blackjack. Whilst the word “slick” can be used to describe production values, the producers managed to take an exhilarating real-life story and turn it into something verging on Hollywood-formulaic. Though exciting, enjoyable, and sometimes funny, after two long hours you’re left with the feeling that there isn’t enough real meat in this movie; that the book it’s based on, without the Hollywood fluff, would be more exciting than the film. Kevin Spacey and Jim Sturgess get no complaints ‘ they’re both solid here. It’s not the thrill-ride you’ve been promised, but it is good popcorn cinema. (Evin Donohoe)