Back in the heady days of the early 80s, in Toronto\'s financial district, a young mild-mannered banker, Dan Mahowny, began embezzling money from his employer, to feed a nasty gambling addiction. And what a cycle it was, every spare moment is devoted to stealing money, to pay back his debts and then gamble some more. Owning Mahowny is based on a true story documented in the best seller, Stung. Phillip Seymour Hoffman delivers an excellent performance as Dan Mahowny, an undemonstrative man, consumed by his need to bet. John Hurt is the opportunistic casino manager, working damn hard to ensure Mahowny stays at the table. While Dan\'s embattled girlfriend, Belinda (played by Minnie Driver in a very unfortunate wig), tries to make sense of Dan\'s addiction.
Directed by Richard Kwietniowski, Owning Mahowny moves sluggishly. The scenes are drawn out and the action laboured. However, I loved the design of this film. Muted colours mirror Mahowny\'s subdued personality and the atmosphere of his workplace. Even the casino, normally a bright and sparkly place - appears lacklustre, incarcerating Mahowny in his self built prison.
