Search - Gambler's Choice on DVD

A Disappointing "Choice"

J. Michael Click | Fort Worth, Texas United States | 06/22/2006

(2 out of 5 stars)

"Movie: **1/2 - DVD Transfer: ** - Extras: **



Pleasant, diverting little melodrama set in the Tenderloin district of New York City at the dawn of the 20th Century. The plot's a variation of the old chestnut about three childhood friends growing up to form a romantic triangle - there's a slightly shady guy (gambling kingpin Chester Morris), a good guy (policeman Russell Hayden), and the comely girl they both love (songstress Nancy Kelly). The appeal here is less the storyline than it is the attractive cast, which in addition to once and future Oscar nominees Morris ("Alibi", 1929) and Kelly ("The Bad Seed", 1956) includes Lee Patrick, Lyle Talbot, and Sheldon Leonard in prominent supporting roles. The turn-of-the-Century costumes are noteworthy, and at 66 minutes in length, the movie isn't long enough to ever become boring.



The Alpha Video presentation of this Pine-Thomas production (originally released through Paramount Pictures) is, unfortunately, of generally poor quality. Sound is acceptable, but the video transfer features an abrupt opening (the first couple of seconds seem to have been trimmed along with the Paramount logo); too-dark contrast in many of the scenes; and a couple of jarring breaks and jumps. If you have a particular desire to see this infrequently televised title (as I did), then you'll of course be a little more forgiving in your assessment of the DVD's quality; casual viewers might be better off making another entertainment choice.

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