Mississippi Grind

About Mississippi Grind

Released in 2015, Mississippi Grind is a compelling drama film focused on the subjects of gambling and addiction. The film is directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck. The narrative follows the story of Gerry, a poker player with a mountain of debt, as he meets the young, attractive and outgoing Curtis. Gerry convinces Curtis to join him on a road trip along the Mississippi River, gambling in multiple cities and trying to recoup his losses. As the journey continues, the true nature of their friendship and their respective issues come to the fore.

Making / Production

The film was made by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, known for their character-centered dramas. The script was well-researched, drawing on real-life stories of gamblers and their experiences. The authenticity of the film was enhanced by shooting on location in various cities along the Mississippi River.

Actors

• Ryan Reynolds as Curtis: Curtis is a charismatic loner and Joe's unexpected friend who has an ability to bring an exciting presence in any room he walks into. Reynolds plays the role impeccably with an underlying depth.
• Ben Mendelsohn as Gerry: A down-on-his-luck poker player, imbued with an air of desperation by Mendelsohn's incredible performance.
• Sienna Miller as Simone: The captivating woman who ensnares both men on their journey. Miller played Simone with grace and charm.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film score features music by artists such as Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings and Big Bill Broonzy.
• Many of the poker scenes in the movie featured actual poker players as extras.
• The character of Simone was partly inspired by a woman Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck met while researching in a riverboat casino in Iowa.

Quotes

• “Fortuna, goddess of luck, I've met you.” - Gerry
• “Gambling is not about money. Gambling is about not facing reality, ignoring conventional, accepted roles and breaking boundaries.” - Curtis
• “That’s what gamblers are. They're con artists. And they con themselves more than anyone.” - Simone

Music, Soundtrack

• “This Train” by Big Bill Broonzy
• “Goin’ Down South” by R. L. Burnside
• “Little Rain” by Jimmy Reed