House of Games

Margaret Ford, a psychiatrist in Seattle, has gained acclaim for her book on obsessive-compulsive disorder. Despite her achievements, she feels unfulfilled in her personal life, suggesting a disconnect between her professional and emotional well-being.

During a therapy session, Margaret's patient, Billy Hahn, reveals his escalating troubles with a criminal named Mike Mancuso. In a moment of crisis, he brandishes a gun and threatens suicide, prompting Margaret to intervene with compassion and authority to save him.

Driven by a mix of curiosity and a desire for excitement, Margaret ventures to the House of Games. She confronts Mike Mancuso there, where he proposes a risky deal involving a back-room poker game and assessment of a player’s tell.

At the poker game, Margaret notes George's nervous habit of playing with his ring when bluffing. She relays this information to Mike, but the situation turns tense when George unexpectedly wins the hand and demands payment, leading to a dramatic standoff.

Margaret discovers that George's gun is merely a water pistol, revealing the entire game was a ruse to con her. Despite being deceived, the thrill of the con captivates her, prompting her to return to the House of Games the next evening.

Margaret expresses her desire to learn about con games, asking Mike to teach her. As he introduces her to the tricks of the trade, their relationship grows intimate, culminating in a night spent together in a hotel room, deepening her involvement in this world.

When Mike is called away for a con, Margaret insists on joining him, posing as his wife. This leads them into a dangerous setup with a businessman that turns out to be an undercover cop, complicating their plans significantly.

As the con collapses into chaos, an undercover officer accidentally shoots himself amidst the struggle. Margaret and Mike must swiftly navigate the confusion, demonstrating their resourcefulness as they attempt to escape from the scene.

Haunted by her guilt, Margaret attempts to return to her normal life but discovers Mike's gang plotting to swindle her. The realization that the pocket knife she acquired belonged to Mike marks a pivotal moment filled with feelings of betrayal.

In a dramatic twist, Margaret confronts Mike at the airport under the pretense of fleeing with him. She reveals her true intentions, brandishing the gun Billy had previously threatened her with, shifting the power dynamic dramatically.

As Mike attempts to manipulate the situation to his advantage, Margaret acts decisively, shooting him multiple times. This tragic climax solidifies her transformation and the drastic lengths she will go to in reclaiming her life.

Time passes, and Margaret appears to have moved on from the traumatic events. She meets with a friend for lunch, showcasing her unrepentant attitude as she reflects on her actions, emphasizing her ability to forgive herself.

As her friend steps away, Margaret's thrill for danger resurfaces. She stealthily steals a gold cigarette lighter from another diner, indulging in the rush that comes with living on the edge, hinting at her unchanged nature.