The Vortex

This is a Gambling Parable that brings us to contemplate the juxtaposition between the material world and the spiritual. At the crossroads is a gambling addict, a washed up 1980s classic Las Vegas comedian, who must make what will probably be the most important decision of his life. The audience is a fly on the wall as we become empaths, watching eccentric characters interact with Pete, played by Billy Gardell. Director Richard Zelniker takes us on a vicarious adventure, one the main character carries as his self-perpetuating loop of intense focus and addiction leads to an unpredictable outcome. Well done!

If you're looking for something different and unique to cleanse your movie palate, look no further than, "The Vortex".

Co-written and directed by Richard Zelniker, this "Birdman" meets "The Gambler" takes us through a substory to the infamous MGM Grand fire of 1980 in Las Vegas.

Starring Billy Gardell as Pete, a down on his luck standup comedian with an un-ruly gambling addiction who thinks all his debt/problems can be solved with one pull of slot machine lever.

This film hooks you from the get go with its eerie ambience and lonesome tone right out the gate. Looming in our thoughts are the inevitable and catastrophic outcome we know of the fires that took the lives of 87 people and injured over 700.

The anticipation only builds not knowing where this story will take us with only just a few hours before the devastation. The intensity builds like the inferno that's coming with each passing character that engages Pete on the slots. Pete's a very likable guy but likes alone won't save him with the people he's mixed up with. With each coin inserted and crank of a lever, Pete's time and money is running out. Will his luck run out, too?

I highly recommend this movie if you appreciate good writing, swiftly flowing and moving cinematography, a beautifully composed score and great acting. (Seriously, every actor in this movie crushed it!).

Zelniker delivers a delight where indie films are much needed during these unforeseen times in the entertainment industry. It's an example of how to make an indie film that's rich with creativity and non-conformity. We desperately need more films of this structure and nature for the industry to thrive. Hopefully "The Vortex" will influence other filmmakers to go all in and lay their cards out there for something they believe in.

So follow my suit and check out, "The Vortex". It's a jackpot!

Just got out a limited release screening for this film! Give it a spin and you can just get lucky! Awesome casting and direction. This film speaks to independent filmmaking and it has some great writing overall. It's really a must-see indy for those interested in character-driven stories and Billy G crushes the performance. He keeps us engaged and into it the whole way. Definitely will get a wider audience as it continues to build theaters. It's a must watch for those into re-living the period casino life with all the chaos that entailed for years Definitely consider taking a trip to go see this film when it comes to a city near you soon.

All bets aside, Billy G and Richard Z are a dynamic duo in "The Vortex." A comedian fueled with gambling addiction has the opportunity of a lifetime to win big or save his soul. The timeline takes place at the MGM Grand during the 80's (true story). WHAT AN EERIE OPENING, BUT YOU HAVEN'T SEEN ANYTHING TILL THE END. Must watch. The writing style reminds me of what Kubrick did in the "The Killing." The introduction to each character relationship with Pete (Billy G), amplifies while gambling on the slots machine. You have friends from the casino, Love interest, loan shark, the loan sharks muscle, and native spirit (is she real or not?).

The performances were award worthy. The entire cast was completely dialed in. After every great scene, the next actor would be like, "hold my beer". Another thing of note was the style of the film. It was unlike anything I have ever seen. This Birdman like single shot kept you engaged throughout. I also have to compliment the composer. The jazzy score was like its own character as it helped dictate the tone of the movie. And last but definitely not least, the lead Billy Gardell. Drama is in his blood, and I hope the industry sees this hidden talent. He can carry a film and although his character is super flawed, you can't help but like the guy and cheer for his redemption. Check out this movie, you won't be disappointed!