The Vortex

This is a Gambling Parable that brings us to contemplate the juxtaposition between the material world and the spiritual. At the crossroads is a gambling addict, a washed up 1980s classic Las Vegas comedian, who must make what will probably be the most important decision of his life. The audience is a fly on the wall as we become empaths, watching eccentric characters interact with Pete, played by Billy Gardell. Director Richard Zelniker takes us on a vicarious adventure, one the main character carries as his self-perpetuating loop of intense focus and addiction leads to an unpredictable outcome. Well done!

I went to see The Vortex during its limited run in Los Angeles not realizing the story would play out against the backdrop of the 1980 MGM Grand Hotel fire in Las Vegas, but I left very impressed with the execution by Richard Zelniker and the performance by Billy Gardell.

Zelniker presents a narrative that swirls with an intoxicatingly dizzying effect, telling a cautionary tale of a comedian, Pete, played by Gardell, struggling with gambling debt and admittedly in too deep with underworld associate and friend, Jimmy, played by Christopher Titus. The complicated dance that plays out from the beginning as Jimmy comes to collect is heightened by the passage of time as well as the eerie occurrences which give way to many jackpots throughout the night, spurred by repeat visits from a Paiute woman (Emily Alabi) on the casino floor. As Pete's desperation increases, the Steadicam shots seem faster, creating a vortex-like effect from which the film draws its name, only slowing as he addresses his shortcomings through conversations with other casino patrons and attempts to take control of his fate.

The film's commitment in its depiction of characters searching for redemption through gambling provides the a near-perfect level of dissonance and in turn evokes a sinking feeling through the last act.

The picture gives me hope that independent film will live on with convincingly good quality and is proof that period pieces are possible at any level. I believe it to be a must-see for audiences seeking heavy handed character-driven films.

The performances were award worthy. The entire cast was completely dialed in. After every great scene, the next actor would be like, "hold my beer". Another thing of note was the style of the film. It was unlike anything I have ever seen. This Birdman like single shot kept you engaged throughout. I also have to compliment the composer. The jazzy score was like its own character as it helped dictate the tone of the movie. And last but definitely not least, the lead Billy Gardell. Drama is in his blood, and I hope the industry sees this hidden talent. He can carry a film and although his character is super flawed, you can't help but like the guy and cheer for his redemption. Check out this movie, you won't be disappointed!

If you're looking for something different and unique to cleanse your movie palate, look no further than, "The Vortex".

Co-written and directed by Richard Zelniker, this "Birdman" meets "The Gambler" takes us through a substory to the infamous MGM Grand fire of 1980 in Las Vegas.

Starring Billy Gardell as Pete, a down on his luck standup comedian with an un-ruly gambling addiction who thinks all his debt/problems can be solved with one pull of slot machine lever.

This film hooks you from the get go with its eerie ambience and lonesome tone right out the gate. Looming in our thoughts are the inevitable and catastrophic outcome we know of the fires that took the lives of 87 people and injured over 700.

The anticipation only builds not knowing where this story will take us with only just a few hours before the devastation. The intensity builds like the inferno that's coming with each passing character that engages Pete on the slots. Pete's a very likable guy but likes alone won't save him with the people he's mixed up with. With each coin inserted and crank of a lever, Pete's time and money is running out. Will his luck run out, too?

I highly recommend this movie if you appreciate good writing, swiftly flowing and moving cinematography, a beautifully composed score and great acting. (Seriously, every actor in this movie crushed it!).

Zelniker delivers a delight where indie films are much needed during these unforeseen times in the entertainment industry. It's an example of how to make an indie film that's rich with creativity and non-conformity. We desperately need more films of this structure and nature for the industry to thrive. Hopefully "The Vortex" will influence other filmmakers to go all in and lay their cards out there for something they believe in.

So follow my suit and check out, "The Vortex". It's a jackpot!

Loved this film from Richard Zelniker - from the opening moments you know you're in for a tense, nail-biting ride. The atmosphere is genuine 1980s Vegas gritty, dark, menacing and totally genuine. Gardell is winning as the charming Pete; even as he's sucked down into his self-made chaos, you can see why everyone is on his side and you root for him the whole way. The cast of characters are all engaging in different ways - this is no one-trick movie - and keep the tension building until the very very last frame. Stunning visuals, snappy writing, and taut, energetic direction from Zelniker - The Vortex pulls you in in all the best ways.