CNN.com - The Marquee

Monday, August 20, 2007

Oh, you're a bad pony. And I'm not gonna bet on you.

David Mamet's "House of Games," the first film the playwright and screenwriter directed, comes out in a Criterion Collection DVD on Tuesday. It's as cold, brilliant and sharp as a new razor blade -- left in the freezer.

The commentaries are by Mamet and his friend, magician, actor and author Ricky Jay -- the latter always a joy to listen to.

"House of Games" is a brilliant work, worthy of Mamet. This is one of my favorite films,reminiscent of film noir at it's finest. Joe Mantegna does his best work, as does Lindsay Crouse. You won't see what's coming, it is Alice-down- the-rabbit-hole all the way to it's startling conclusion. You will never forget it.

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