Luck (2004)

Shane Bradley, who is fixated on ideas of luck and destiny, tries to win the girl of his dreams. After their relationship falters, Shane begins to think he might be unlucky and turns to gambling as an outlet for his obsession.

Introduction
"Luck" is a Canadian drama movie released in 2004, directed by Peter Wellington and starring Luke Kirby, Sarah Polley, and Noam Jenkins. The film is centered around the concept of gambling, linking the effects of living by chance with a strange romance.

Plot Synopsis
The film begins with Shane Bradley (Luke Kirby), a captivating and rather conceited guy who thinks that whatever in life is attributable to 'luck'. He's a natural bettor, enjoying the excitement and game of life. Shane resides in a world of poker games, horse races, and lotto tickets, with the belief that he can control his luck.

His point of views alter when he crosses paths with a born-again Christian female, Margaret (Sarah Polley), who is company in her belief that life events are predetermined by fate, not luck. Even their initial meeting in a bar appears as a concoction of fate and luck. The contrast in their outlooks towards life - one attributing whatever to opportunity and the other unshakeably sure in destiny's directing hand - creates an interesting stress.

Shane's love for surviving on the edge doesn't agree with Margaret. She honestly gambling, setting up the body of the story. As Shane gets to know Margaret, he begins to fall for her. In order for him to win her heart, he decides to place one last bet to show that he can control his own fate and give up gambling for great.

Character Development
Shane's character sees considerable development throughout the movie. From a positive but conceited character who thinks he can control his luck, he develops into a person who takes obligation for his actions. His interactions with Margaret guide this improvement, introducing him to the concept of fixed fate and destiny.

Climax & Conclusion
The climax unfolds as Shane's efforts to quit betting stop working, plunging him into debt. In a desperate move, he decides to bank on a horse race he's been tipped on, staking whatever including his relationship with Margaret. When he loses, he spirals into a state of anguish. The outcome requires him to introspect, questioning his faith in luck.

The film ends on a note of redemption. Shane returns house, regretful and desperate to offset his errors. He reveals his regret to Margaret, proclaiming not just his love for her but also his newly found realization about life's absence of control. Ultimately, "Luck" is a tale of transformation, redemption, and the strength of love over luck.

Themes & Style
"Luck" melds together the themes of love, luck, fate, and individual improvement. It uniquely contrasts two extreme beliefs - one that credits all happenings to mere luck and the other associating whatever to a theistic planned fate. This contrast forms a substantial face-off throughout the film, supplying not simply romantic tension but likewise philosophical thought. Peter Wellington's direction diligently brings out the friction in between the primary characters, making "Luck" an engaging and thought-provoking drama.

Top Cast

  • Luke Kirby (small)
    Luke Kirby
    Shane
  • Sarah Polley (small)
    Sarah Polley
    Margaret
  • Jed Rees (small)
    Jed Rees
    Andrew
  • Sergio Di Zio (small)
    Sergio Di Zio
    Vittorio
  • Noam Jenkins (small)
    Noam Jenkins
    Robbie
  • Fiona Reid (small)
    Fiona Reid
    Mom
  • Peter MacNeill (small)
    Peter MacNeill
    Dad
  • Randy Hughson
    Bill
  • Guy Sanvido
    Mutuel Employee
  • Scott Pomer
    Casino Manager
  • Brad Wietersen
    Meeting Host