A lifetime loser is indentured by an old school gaming manager to "cool down" winning tables at an aging Vegas casino. The cooler unexpectedly falls for a pretty cocktail waitress and his bad luck takes a u-turn upsetting profits and old grievances.

The script has its ups and downs but The Cooler generally pleases in all the important areas. Macy is well cast as the long-time loser. Bello and Baldwin each do well in their supporting roles. There is a nice main story here that is inherently interesting. The secondary plot line involving young MBAs pressuring Baldwin to update his marketing and tactics could have been given a little more attention, especially when considering how Baldwin’s ultimate demise came about.

The music is also a highlight in this just below "great" light drama and can be enjoyed on a music only track on the DVD. Baldwin was nominated for an Academy Award for his supporting work.

Directed by Wayne Kramer.