Going for Broke

Laura is a charity director whose rising ambition and comfort with lavish spending lead her toward casino gambling. Her addiction strains her marriage with Jim, consumes her attention, and isolates her from her children. She manipulates funds to fuel gambling and later confronts legal consequences.

Jim is initially the supportive husband who becomes frustrated by Laura's gambling and its impact on the family. He hopes to salvage their relationship and care for the children, but the mounting strain ultimately leads to separation. He shares a tearful farewell with Jennifer and Tommy as he tries to protect them.

Jennifer is a teenage daughter who rebels as her mother's gambling escalates; she adopts a goth lifestyle, experiments with smoking, and spends time with an older boyfriend. Her behavior reflects the family's breakdown and her longing for stability.

Tommy is a younger child who endures neglect due to Laura's addiction. He is cared for by grandparents and emotional distance grows between him and his mother.

Brad is a local benefactor who donates to the charity and becomes involved in Laura's fundraising efforts, representing the veneer of generosity that masks casino influence.

Martine is Laura's colleague who worries about her strange behavior and eventual fraudulent actions; she represents the conscientious response within the charity.

Ken Dowling is the tax auditor who uncovers Laura's fraud, triggering the investigation and legal consequences.

Lois is Laura's grandmother who encourages Jennifer to stay in school and question risky choices, providing a moral counterpoint to Laura's neglect.

Grandpa Frank steps in to care for the children during Laura's downfall, offering a steady, grounding presence.

The judge administers sentencing as the family confronts the consequences of Laura's fraud and addiction.