The Cooler
User Score
6.7 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 36 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 36
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 36
  3. Negative: 4 out of 36

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  1. AbbeB.
    Jun 4, 2004
    10
    Thank you, William H. Macy,thank you, Alec Baldwin, thank you Maria Bello, and thank you, Wayne Kramer (especially you for creativity here). You have truly made played the lead in a film that looks like a real, live 'movie'. They say a good movie, a really good story is one that hooks you long after the end credits. This film has been a real pleasure. My Dad lives in Las Vegas. He asked me to see "The Cooler" because he said that Mr Baldwin had nailed the role of the wiseguy Casino Boss down cold. My Dad palled around with guys like Shelly. But my Dad did not tell me about the plot, which is mystical in a sense, about the transformation love can bring. Real, true grand-mall love. What a surprise for me! I do not rate ANY films a "10". But if a film moves you, you rate it a "10". Abbe B. … Expand
  2. ScottB.
    Feb 6, 2004
    9
    I saw this movie weeks ago and it still is fresh in my head. Go see this one...
  3. BobbetteS.
    Mar 20, 2004
    9
    Fresh, unexpected, funny tale of redemption and the hope for change most of us cling to.
  4. Rico
    May 6, 2004
    9
    We need more original movies like this with few special effects to distract from human comedy and drama. This was a breath of fresh air and had some plot twists that I didn't see coming. Very nice!
  5. SeanA.
    Jun 9, 2004
    9
    This film will grab on to you and not let go tell the end. A very unique plot with the flavor of Fargo. Each character is extremely believable which helps absorb you in.
  6. Fantasy
    Jan 19, 2004
    10
    I saw the movie this weekend with my main squeeze and we both thoroughly enjoyed it. The three lead actors, especially, Maria Bello, were outstanding. The movie starts out as a romantic comedy in which you care for all of the characters. Bill Macy, the lovable loser. Alec Baldwin, a dinosaur of his time trying to protect his turf. And Maria Bello, the femme fatale, who unexpectedly finds real love. Then the movie takes a dark unexpected twist? It builds to a real climax which will have you holding on for dear life. Kudo's to all for making such an entertaining film. It's definitely a sleeper hit and worth the watch.… Expand
  7. GilH.
    Dec 22, 2003
    10
    A very cool movie indeed. One of the best films about Vegas. And a wonderful, old fashioned love story -- but still very sexy! Great twist at the end!

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
69 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 36 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 36
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 36
  3. Negative: 0 out of 36
  1. Premiere
    Reviewed by: Alex Kranz
    75
    Driving the plot, Baldwin gives an inexorable, career-marking performance.
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  2. Rolling Stone
    Reviewed by: Peter Travers
    88
    Wayne Kramer, who co-wrote the scrappy script with Frank Hannah, makes a potent directing debut and strikes gold with the cast.
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  3. Variety
    Reviewed by: Todd McCarthy
    90
    Wayne Kramer's sexy and often humorous feature directorial debut surrounds its sweet center with the energy, flash and risk of the gambling capital. Sterling performances by William H. Macy and Maria Bello as the long-shot lovers and Alec Baldwin as a temperamental casino operator.
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