Lay the Favorite

Lay the Favorite is an engaging and entertaining comedy-drama film from 2012 which was directed by Stephen Frears. Known for delivering films that blend humor, drama, and realistic situations with intriguing characters, Frears brings the same approach to Lay the Favorite. Stephen Frears is renowned for his skillful touch when it comes to delineating the essence of human relationships, whether it be familial or romantic. This film is no different.

The story of Lay the Favorite is centered around Beth Raymer, a character brought to life by British actress Rebecca Hall who known for her ability to completely immerse herself into the personality of her characters. Beth is a woman in her thirties who has been living a fun life, cocktail waitressing, and working as a private dancer. However, she decides to seek something more stable and fulfilling. Guided by this desire, Beth moves to Las Vegas where everything about the place is new to her, but she hopes it will lead to big opportunities.

Upon arriving in Las Vegas, Beth is introduced to the city’s sophisticated and intimidating sports gambling scene. She soon crosses paths with the professional gambler, Dink Heimowitz, a role brilliantly played by Bruce Willis. Known for his engaging performance and unmatchable charisma, Willis brings a rawness and authenticity to his character. He presents Dink to us as a seasoned gambler, confident, sometimes brash, but undeniably charming despite his flaws.

Beth joins Dink’s enterprise and proves to be a quick learner. Her smarts, combined with her endearing naive optimism, quickly draw Dink's attention. He becomes her mentor in the world of sports betting, and their relationship develops into a unique bond that forms the heart of the film. The story also beautifully expresses the colorful and diverse world of professional betting, revealing that there's more to the business than just luck.

Vince Vaughn delivers an exceptional performance as Rosie, a character who becomes an influential figure in Beth’s life. Rosie, a rival gambler based in New York, has his own nuanced persona. Vaughn, known for his cunning charm and wit, makes Rosie a complex character who adds another layer to the narrative. The chemistry among the cast, especially between Hall and Willis, is a strength of the film and provides the perfect backdrop for the intriguing storyline.

Adding to the stellar cast, Catherine Zeta-Jones plays Dink’s wife, Tulip. Her portrayal of a woman who is jealous and suspicious of her husband’s relationship with his new protegee definitely adds tension in the storyline. Joshua Jackson rounds out the main cast as Beth’s loyal and patient boyfriend, Jeremy.

The film's plot delves not just into the mechanics of sports betting but also into the complexities of human emotions and relationships, and it is set against the backdrop of the glitzy and glamorous world of Las Vegas.

Based on Beth Raymer's memoir of the same name, the movie has this laid-back and easy-going vibe that balances well with the high-stakes, volatile world of gambling. The title, "Lay the Favorite", is a betting term which resonates with the journey of the film's protagonist - Beth's journey in navigating through the most unpredictable gamble of all – life itself.

Rebecca Hall's performance showcases her ability to enact both comedy and drama, making the film a must-watch for her fans. The way she portrays Beth's growth from a naive outsider to a confident insider in the world of sports betting forms an intriguing narrative arc that keeps the audience invested in the film. Bruce Willis, as always, delivers an engaging performance, effortlessly switching between a mentor figure, an astute bettor, and a complicated husband.

The cinematography of Las Vegas brings out the city's glitz and shadows in equal measure, showcasing it as a city of opportunities and fast-paced life. The dialogues are punchy and infused with humor, successfully portraying the complexities of the characters and their lives in the strange, bright world of sports gambling.

While it is a comedy-drama, Lay the Favorite offers more than light-hearted entertainment. It provides a mirror into the struggles, ambitions, and relationships of everyday people in the unusual, high-stakes world of professional betting. For those interested in films that combine the elements of drama, comedy, and sports, Lay the Favorite proves to be an intriguing choice.