Hard Eight

Streaming video - 1997

In Paul Thomas Anderson's debut feature, John (John C. Reilly), a half-bright loser stranded in Reno, is down to his last few bucks when Sydney (Philip Baker Hall), taking pity on him, buys him breakfast and offers him a few tips on making money in the casinos. Two years later, John has become Sydney's partner. Nominated for five awards, including Best First Feature and Best Cinematography at the **Film Independent Spirit Awards.** Nominated for the Golden Camera at the **Cannes Film Festival.** *"Anderson coaxes top-notch performances from the male leads and also from Gwyneth Paltrow." - Kevin McManus, **The Washington Post***