Molly’s Game

THE GIST: Molly Bloom, an Olympic-class skier who had to give up her dreams after a ruinous accident, reinvents herself as the hostess of the world's most exclusive high-stakes poker game. Unfortunately, the gig comes with a hefty dose of stressors and ends up catching the eye of the FBI.

Written and directed by Aaron Sorkin, Molly's Game tells a very interesting story that's a biographical drama but feels more like an action flick because of Sorkin's trademark rat-a-tat line delivery and fast-paced intercutting. I'm sure that's not everyone's cup of tea, but I like it, even though sometimes it feels like a tornado of words.

Jessica Chastain is terrific, fully embodying Molly Bloom. Idris Elba is also great and Kevin Costner is really good in a somewhat subdued role.

THE BOTTOM LINE: If you like crime stories, this is for you. I definitely recommend it because it's based on a true story and yet feels totally made up.

Grade: 8