Maverick (1994)

Originally Reviewed

Monday August 8, 2007

The film Maverick is based on an old television show by the same title which starred James Garner as the witty card player Maverick. I've never seen the show before but I have always been a fan of the film and consider it among the best TV show conversions. Maverick is a hilarious blend of western and comedy and Mel Gibson gives a fantastic performance.

Gibson plays Brett Maverick, a fancy pants, fast shooting, smart allelic card player who poses as a spineless/gutless chicken in order to outwit his enemies. Maverick's on his way to enter the Three Rivers Poker Championship for a chance at winning half a million dollars, but first he has to obtain $25,000 to enter and he's about three thousand short. So he begins making the rounds to some of his "friends" who owe him money, the only problem is he seems to be getting stiffed by everyone of them.

On his adventure Maverick runs into Annabelle Bransford (Jodie Foster) a sly woman who's also looking to enter the poker contest, Maverick has an instant connection with her but has to continually watch his back while she's around. Throughout the film Maverick attempts to acquire the remaining money he needs while trying to stay alive and one step ahead of those who seem to not want him to make the contest.

What makes Maverick great is its fun and different. With an all-star cast, an entertaining storyline and a lot of laughs what's not to love about this film!?! Rumors of a sequel have been popping up lately, if one ever sees the light of day I'll definitely be there to check it out as long as Mel Gibson's still at the lead and the film still manages to keep the carefree atmosphere that this classic was able to maintain. 

8/10