The Gamblers (1970) Blu-ray Review

Jason Lockard October 27, 2023

Gamblers always believe their windfall is just the next roll of dice or the next deal of the cards. There have been many films made through cinema history about gamblers. But in 1970 Ron Winston, known for directing TV classics like Twilight Zone directed his version of this genre with The Gamblers.

Now for the 53rd year anniversary of the film's release VCI Entertainment and MVD Visual have joined forces to give this film a physical media release. Now crime caper fans can own The Gamblers on Blu-ray or DVD your choice.

A team of professional card sharks set out to fleece a wealthy aristocrat of this savings and receive an I.O.U. in payment, which turns out to be worthless. An interesting international cast and a setting in beautiful downtown Dubrovnik (a resort town in Yugoslavia) makes for an enjoyable 'caper' film.

The film is based on the 1866 novel The Gamblers by Fyodor Dostoyevsky. Now you may expect a lot of action and adventure, but the story takes place on a boat and at a card table. So there is a lot of talk and planning and not so much on the action. But the dialogue is snappy.

Four years later Dostoyevsky's book would be made into a feature film yet again this time with James Caan as the lead. Now while this film is lauded as a great film, I consider this one on the same level as that one!

VCI Entertainment and MVD Visual have transferred this film to Blu-ray in 1080p and in widescreen format. The English audio is a LPCM 2.0. There is also the option for English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. Always a nice feature!

The Gamblers looks and sounds amazing on Blu-ray. I remember seeing a print of this film, it was so bad it was almost unwatchable. This transfer there are no signs of damage to this print that I could see. now in addition to a very nice-looking print is a very insightful audio commentary by Robert Kelly, noted film historian. He brings a lot of information. This is a must listen in my humble opinion.

Now while The Gamblers is not the best caper film ever produced, it is not a bad way to spend an evening. Just don't expect a not stop action film and you will be quite entertained. As the tagline states, "Man does not live by love alone.... There's also robbery, gambling, cheating, you name it!"

So, If you love a fun caper film, The Gamblers may be a film that you're looking for. Head over to Amazon and order your copy on Blu-ray or DVD today!