Deck of Cards

A film experience unlike any before.

Gregg Turkington's DECK OF CARDS tells a historical tale that somehow previously slipped through each and every one of our school textbooks and documentary collections up until this point. Profound beyond belief, DECK OF CARDS tells the true story of how we humans as we know ourselves nearly missed out on knowing how a deck of cards works, entirely.

While the writing and directing are equal parts challenging and and innovative, it's Tim Heidecker's dual performance as both Special Agemt JJ Denecker and the Jack of Cards that brings down the house in a walloping showcase of esteemed talent. Must be seen to believe.

I am loathe to use any movie "rating" system that fails to conform to the 5-bag system. That aside, what Gregg Turkington has accomplished with Deck of Card merits the highest rating possible (5 bags of popcorn is the limit).

While it is true the theatrical version of Deck of Cards was BUTCHERED by Tim Heidenker, Turkington's clear vision is still apparent. Nothing will prepare audiences for the fantastical world that Gregg created--a world where the Mummy, Dudley Moore, some woman riding a horse, and Jocker try to uncover who kidnapped the King of Hearts (Joe "Mr Money" Estevez). It's a wild-ride with stellar performances all around. I dare say even Michael Matthews (aka Laroux) shines as Jimmy Hendricks. Of course Mark Porch steals the whole movie with his masterful portrayal of multiple characters (e.g. Mummy, Einstein, and Billy Graham). This is one movie that Oscer cannot ignore. Best. Film. Ever.

Perfect. Perfect on every level from the acting to the script, to the cinematography, everything about this movie is 100% perfect.

I have only ever seen this film once, I only ever want to see this film once and I will only ever need to see this film once. It is etched on my mind. It stands alone as a monumental piece of cinema, a magnificent accomplishment.

Gregg Turkington is a unique man who really does deserve the title of "genius" when it comes to cinema. He is a buff, but he is one of us, and believe me, this buff has the right stuff.

It goes without saying that Deck of Cards is the best movie ever made.

Deck of Cards is Gregg Turkington's first feature length film as a director. Gregg Turkington is a man with a vast library of classic movies and movie knowledge rivaled by few others, so when he is at the helm one naturally pays attention.

With Deck of Cards, Turkington manages to put his own original spin on a story that we're all familiar with, namely the story of the deck of 52 playing cards we've all played with at some point in our lives whether it is a friendly card game with the family on vacation, or a night out at the casinos in Vegas.

For the attentive viewer the movie is imbued with references to old hollywood and classic movies, but it's at times also very fresh and action filled, reminding oneself of spy thrillers like Jack Reach and the James Bond series.

If there would be anything to detract from this film, it would have to be the political subtext that pops up throughout the movie that frankly seems a bit out of place. One could almost think that another director had been involved for parts of the movie.

All in all this is a great and exciting film, and the visual effects are STUNNING. At times, I was unable to tell what was real and what was CGI. It's amazing to see how far technology has come.

Deck of Cards not only dazzles with Gregg Turkington's directorial brilliance but also features an unforgettable performance by Mark Proksch as Albert Einstein. Proksch's portrayal of the iconic physicist is nothing short of extraordinary, adding a layer of depth and authenticity to the film. His ability to embody the essence of Einstein, capturing both the intellect and humanity of the character, elevates Deck of Cards to new heights.

Proksch's performance as Albert Einstein in Deck of Cards has left an indelible mark on the film industry, inspiring none other than Christopher Nolan. It is rumored that Nolan, deeply impressed by Proksch's nuanced and compelling portrayal, drew inspiration for his own project, "Oppenheimer." This speaks volumes about the impact of Proksch's acting, as Nolan is renowned for his discerning eye and commitment to excellence in filmmaking.

In essence, Mark Proksch's stellar performance in Deck of Cards not only contributes to the film's success but also serves as a catalyst for broader artistic endeavors. His ability to bring historical figures to life on screen has undoubtedly left an enduring impression, influencing even the most esteemed filmmakers in the industry. Proksch's contribution to the film stands as a testament to the collaborative brilliance that Turkington fosters in his projects, making Deck of Cards a must-see for film buffs and a source of inspiration for filmmakers worldwide.

While Deck of Cards undoubtedly shines as a cinematic gem, it's essential to address the nuances that come with any film. Regrettably, the only hiccup in this otherwise impeccable masterpiece is the segments featuring Tim Heidecker. Heidecker's performance, though undoubtedly talented in other contexts, appears somewhat out of sync with the overall tone and pacing of Deck of Cards.

It's important to note that this critique is not a reflection of Heidecker's capabilities as an actor, but rather a subjective observation of how his presence might disrupt the seamless flow of the narrative. The film, which otherwise maintains a captivating rhythm, encounters a brief stumbling block during these moments.

This critique should be taken with a grain of salt, as opinions on comedic timing and tonal balance vary among viewers. However, the consensus remains that while Deck of Cards is a triumph on many fronts, the portions involving Tim Heidecker may leave some audience members yearning for a more harmonious integration of his comedic style within the broader context of the film.

In the grand tapestry of cinema, imperfections are a natural part of the artistic process, and this minor critique does little to diminish the overall brilliance of Gregg Turkington's directorial vision in Deck of Cards. Despite this small hiccup, the film remains a captivating and thought-provoking experience, showcasing Turkington's mastery in crafting compelling narratives and delivering visual excellence.