GRINDERS

Cinemavixion Review

Matt Gallagher's 'Grinders' offers a raw, intimate glimpse into the clandestine world of underground poker, a realm where midnight is the start of the workday and fortunes can shift with the turn of a card. Gallagher, also the film's subject and narrator, masterfully blends his personal journey as a filmmaker and new father with the stories of other "grinders," painting a vivid portrait of a life lived on the edge. The documentary eschews sensationalism for a grounded exploration of risk, addiction, and the often-elusive dream that fuels this unique subculture. With its first-person perspective and candid interviews, 'Grinders' transcends the typical poker narrative, delving into the profound personal stakes involved when the game extends beyond the felt and into the fabric of everyday life, family, and fatherhood. It's a compelling look at the human cost and allure of a high-stakes existence.