The Cincinnati Kid (1965, dir. Norman Jewison) ***/****

While I'm no die-hard poker player, Norman Jewison's "The Cincinnati Kid" turns the game into an exciting, compelling adventure.  There are is great cast in this film that give good performances.  Steve McQueen, as usual, is charismatic, and a swaggering, intelligent card-shark.  Edward G. Robinson steals the show as his main adversary and chief opponent.  The film is fun to watch and at times intense.  There are scenes which reminded me of "The Sting" another film that deals with poker as a heart-pounding game of luck mixed with will-power.  The ending is breath-taking and will put you on the edge of your seat until the closing credits.  A good film, with a great cast, that has many exciting surprises.