Any Number Can Play

Compelling anti-gaming treatise is harmed by unnecessary (and quite dull) detours into Gable's domestic problems, and an underdeveloped conflict with his son. When it sticks to the gaming, it emerges as a surprisingly thoughtful and touching meditation on personal responsibility from all sides -- and provides suitable ignition for the tense and exciting craps game at the finale, with a great part for Morgan as a cocky, ageing gambler.

An extremely likable gambling casino movie. well-written by Richard Brooks and breezily directed by Mervyn Leroy. Gable is still cocky but with the added vulnerability of age, and he has superb support from Wendell Corey, Mary Astor, Margorie Rambeau and Barry Sullivan, et. al. Highlight: the last great performance by character actor Frank Morgan.

Interesting film with lots of loose ends dangling. I appreciated the way in which the gambling theme is played throughout--all of the decisions these people make are gambles. Some win, some lose. But Gable's Charlie plays his life straight right to the end, recognizing that every time he plays he risks losing his money, his family, and even himself. But the risk of loss never prevents him from playing.

Clark Gable as a squeaky clean gambling house owner.... if you're up to some moral "fantasy", Any Number Can Play (1949) can be a good one. But you got to be prepared for that wholesome pay-off.