Some titles are better than others, of course, and Arbitrage is one of those that is more confusing than commanding.  It is a financial term which I had never heard before and it is difficult to pronounce as well.  Unless one is aware of the ins and outs of big business, this seems a poor choice of title, especially since writer-director Nicholas Jarecki makes no mention of it in his drama.  And, having read what it means since seeing the film, I’m still not sure that it applies thematically.

Businessman Robert Miller (Richard Gere) seems to have it all, but this very closeup and personal profile of his life proves that he is in deep trouble, both professionally and personally.  His company is about to sold, as long as he can keep hidden some financial shenanigans; meanwhile, his mistress (Laetitia Casta) is demanding more and more of his time and attention.  Sure enough, he makes a mistake that threatens everything he holds dear.

Jarecki’s film balances both facets of Miller’s existence with some precariousness. Miller’s personal tribulations reminded me of a serious version of The Bonfire of the Vanities, without all the rabble-rousing societal commentary.  I found this premise obvious and predictable, though it certainly exacerbates his professional troubles. Those money troubles are even less interesting than his personal situation.  So it is difficult for me to appreciate this story, except for one element.  Richard Gere.  I’ve gradually come to the conclusion that the Silver Fox is a pretty adept actor, and he is quite effective as the troubled financier.  Even when the story turned me off, Gere kept me interested in what his anti-heroic, genuinely desperate character was going to do next.  If you really like Richard Gere, as I do, you might find this movie worthwhile.  Otherwise, I advise you to skip it.  ☆ ☆.  2 October 2012.