The Card Counter

The Card Counter

Year: 2021

Runtime: 109 min

Language: English

Director: Paul Schrader

DramaThriller

A former military police officer, William Tell, now works as a card counter, using his skills to survive. He crosses paths with a young man who wants to seek revenge, and William finds himself drawn into a dangerous situation. As they team up and navigate the world of high-stakes poker, William’s carefully constructed life is threatened. He must confront the demons of his past and the consequences of his choices, all while protecting the young man he’s taken under his wing.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Card Counter (2021)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Card Counter (2021). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The story occurs in a contemporary setting, reflecting on modern issues of redemption, trauma, and the moral complexities faced by individuals. This timeframe underscores the persistent themes of personal struggle and societal challenges that resonate with today's audiences.

Location

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a vibrant resort city known for its casinos and boardwalk. It has a rich history tied to gambling and is a popular destination for tourists seeking entertainment and nightlife. The film highlights its glitz and the underbelly of gambling culture.

🏙️ City 🎲 Casino

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:53

Main Characters – The Card Counter (2021)

Meet the key characters of The Card Counter (2021), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

William Tell

William Tell is a skilled gambler who prefers a low-profile lifestyle, characterized by small bets and modest winnings. He grapples with his traumatic past and strives for redemption while attempting to guide others away from violence and self-destruction.

🃏 Gambler 💡 Mentor

La Linda

La Linda is a sharp and resourceful figure in the gambling world, managing investments for various gamblers. She has a complex relationship with Tell, embodying both support and emotional detachment as they navigate their respective struggles.

👩‍💼 Investor 💔 Supportive

Cirk Baufort

Cirk is a troubled young man grappling with familial pain and vengeance related to his father's struggles. His desire for revenge against Gordo reflects his internal turmoil, and his interactions with Tell illustrate the potential for change amidst despair.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Troubled Youth 🔥 Vengeful

John Gordo

John Gordo is a retired military officer whose past actions haunt the lives of others, particularly Cirk. His presence represents the lingering trauma associated with the events at Abu Ghraib, making him a pivotal figure in the narrative.

🕴️ Authority 😔 Guilt

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:53

Major Themes – The Card Counter (2021)

Explore the central themes of The Card Counter (2021), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Redemption

The theme of redemption plays a crucial role as William Tell seeks to move beyond his troubled past linked to violence and guilt. His journey conveys the struggles of atonement and the desire for a better life, revealing the internal battles faced by those seeking forgiveness and a fresh start.

⚖️ Consequences

The film delves into the consequences of past actions and decisions, particularly highlighting the impact of the controversial Abu Ghraib prison scandal. As characters navigate their traumatic histories, the narrative emphasizes how choices reverberate through lives, affecting not only the individual but also their loved ones.

🃏 Gambling

Gambling serves as a significant backdrop to the story, symbolizing both risk and hope for the characters. It reflects their desire to escape their circumstances while also demonstrating the sometimes destructive nature of gambling as a means of coping with trauma and uncertainty.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:53

Unlock the Full Story of The Card Counter

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Card Counter in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Card Counter is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Card Counter Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Card Counter, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Card Counter Summary

The Card Counter Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Card Counter with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Card Counter Timeline

The Card Counter Ending Explained

What really happened at the end of The Card Counter? This detailed ending explained page breaks down final scenes, hidden clues, and alternate interpretations with expert analysis and viewer theories.

The Card Counter Ending Explained

More About The Card Counter

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Card Counter: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About The Card Counter

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