21

21 is a fun, glitzy movie (based on real events) about a group of MIT students who took Vegas for hundreds of thousands. Jim Sturgess (also seen in Across the Universe) plays Ben Campbell, a brilliant young mind desperately trying to find a way to pay for Harvard Medical School. When Professor Micky Rosa, played by Kevin Spacey, notices his gift he invites Ben into his underground card counting club. Hesitant at first, Ben quickly realizes just how intoxicating the glam life of Vegas can be and discovers that once in this exclusive club it is hard to get out.

A great script and great performances make this movie a gambling gem. It is face-paced, fun and exciting. The juxtaposition between MIT and Vegas is beautifully captured. This movie, no doubt, will only serve to propel the blossoming careers of Jim Sturgess and Kate Bosworth.

Missy Cinema Score: B+