Taking Chances (2009)

Taking Chances Poster

When he discovers that an Indian casino is about to be built over the town's historic battlefield, Chase Revere, the self-appointed protector of a small town's rather meager place in American history, joins forces with sexy but dangerous town siren Lucy Shanks to launch an all-out offensive against the project - earning the wrath of the entire town.

Movie Summary
"Taking Chances" is a 2009 American comedy-drama film directed by Talmage Cooley. It's based around a village near a Native American reservation, featuring Justin Long as the primary character, Chase Revere.

Main Plot
The film focuses on Chase Revere (played by Justin Long) who works as the heritage conservator or "town historian" for the village of Patriotville. He's rather wacky and leads a simple, ultimate small-town life, carrying the responsibility of maintaining the town's history and legacy.

The essence of the story starts unfolding when the town finds out about the impending construct of an 'Indian Casino'. The casino assures significant financial advantages and task opportunities to the otherwise job-dry town. However, it also threatens to totally take apart the town's rich history as it is expected to be developed on the Civil War battlefield which has a substantial historic importance.

Characters and Development
Chase, oppositional by nature, decides to stand versus this proposal and soon finds himself embroiled in a political fight with the indifferent locals who favor the economic benefits that the casino would bring. He is initially separated in his crusade till he finds an unanticipated ally in the form of Lucy (played by Emmy Rossum), a fiery and rebellious young woman who is supportive of his cause.

Their struggle to protect the town's heritage forms the rest of the plot, with various comical and significant moments that highlight the large distinction between Chase and Lucy's technique to the same objective.

Noteworthy Performances
Justin Long provides an outstanding performance as Chase Revere, a well-rounded character with an unique mix of awkward funny and truthful objective. Emmy Rossum likewise stands out as the spunky Lucy Shanks, supplying the perfect counterbalance to Chase's character. The duo's chemistry adds an element of depth to the content, creating an interesting story.

Crucial Reception and Summary
"Taking Chances" has an intriguing plot and manages to mix humor with an engaging cause. It gives a balanced perspective on financial development versus conservation of heritage, without taking a high ethical ground. However, it fell short of appeal due to absence of substantial resolution and some critics found it somewhat foreseeable.

In spite of the criticism, "Taking Chances" successfully provided a definitely various narrative that's unusual in mainstream cinema, dealing with concerns like historical preservation with an easy going method. The performances of the lead actors, the special plot, and the humorous undertones all contribute to its appeal as an enjoyable, although non-traditional, comedy-drama.

In conclusion, "Taking Chances" is a film about the pursuit of a guy who goes to fantastic lengths to safeguard his town's heritage. Mixed with humor and drama, love, and political fights, the film attracts audiences with its unique story and unforgettable efficiencies, even if it does not rather keep up with some audience's expectations in terms of resolution and predictability.

Top Cast

  • Justin Long (small)
    Justin Long
    Chase Revere
  • Emmanuelle Chriqui (small)
    Emmanuelle Chriqui
    Lucy
  • Rob Corddry (small)
    Rob Corddry
    Cleveland Fishback
  • Keir O'Donnell (small)
    Keir O'Donnell
    Digger Morris
  • Missi Pyle (small)
    Missi Pyle
    Faith Fishback
  • David Jensen (small)
    David Jensen
    Samuel Many Bulls
  • Jimmi Simpson (small)
    Jimmi Simpson
    Charlie Carbonara
  • Nick Offerman (small)
    Nick Offerman
    Hoke Hollander
  • Brian Howe (small)
    Brian Howe
    Stover Barksdale
  • Phil Reeves (small)
    Phil Reeves
    Stanton Revere
  • Robert Beltran (small)
    Robert Beltran
    Joseph Sleeping Bear