About Two for the Money

Two for the Money is a 2005 American sports-drama film directed by D.J. Caruso and starring Al Pacino, Matthew McConaughey, and Rene Russo. The movie explores the dangerous and high-stakes world of sports gambling, telling a captivating story with numerous surprising twists and turns.

The plot follows Brandon Lang (McConaughey), a promising football player whose career is derailed by a knee injury. He then becomes a successful sports handicapper, catching the attention of Walter Abrams (Pacino), the head of one of the biggest sports consulting operations in the United States. The film explores their turbulent business relationship, as well as Walter's relationship with his wife, Toni (Russo).

Making / Production

The film was produced by Jay Cohen, David C. Robinson, James G. Robinson and directed by D.J. Caruso. It was released by Universal Pictures and Morgan Creek Productions. The screenplay was by Dan Gilroy.

Actors

• Al Pacino plays Walter Abrams, a seasoned sports gambler who mentors Brandon. He delivers a dynamic performance, giving the character a fast-talking and dramatic flair.
• Matthew McConaughey stars as Brandon Lang, a gifted football player turned sports handicapper. His portrayal is a mix of ambition, charm and vulnerability.
• René Russo takes the role of Toni Morrow-Abrams, Walter’s wife. Russo humanizes her character, bringing out the struggles of a woman torn between her loyalty to her husband and her concern for his addiction.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie is loosely based on the real life of Brandon Lang.
• During earlier stages of development, the film's title was "The Best Bet".

Awards

Two for the Money did not win any major awards.

Quotes

• "That's what a leader's about: sacrifice. The times he's gotta sacrifice because he's gotta lead, by example. Not by fear and not by self-pity." - Walter Abrams
• "There is no such thing as a lock.": - Brandon Lang

• "Sticky Mickey" - Dangerman
• "Two for the Money" - Score by Christophe Beck