Greed mightn't be good but it is a subject filmmakers love to explore.
The Bet arrives as an Australian version of Wall Street. Problem is, it pales in comparison with that gem from the 1980s.
It's the story of a glib young stockbroker Will who makes a bet with his privileged banker friend Angus over who can make the most money in 90 days.
Inevitably, insider-trading shenanigans ensue, and the fallout affects everyone, including Will's lawyer girlfriend Tory and his working class dad George.
Aden Young makes his villain coldly charismatic and Sybilla Budd lends Tory some sympathy. But Matt Newton is too restless and overplays almost every scene. Director Mark Lee, best known for playing Archie in Gallipoli, should've reined his leading man in.
At best, this is passable cautionary tale about not very likeable characters, but we do feel like we've seen it all before, and done better.
The Bet rates two stars and is in cinemas now.
