a wistful tale of a bookie past his prime and too nice to play the debt collector . peter falk give an amazing performance a a small time boston bookie who far too reluctant to enforce the tough tactic of his mob bos . the movie start slow but reward with a touching tale aid by an inspiring cast . lauren holly be convince a a self sacrifice waitress wife of her gambler cum alcoholic husband and show she no barbie doll . excellent act also by tim hutton a holly irresponsible husband and tyne daly a falk wife . the dull spot be freddie prinze jr ( who should remain in comedy ) one dimensional role . he be unable to portray well his role a an arrogant self serving and cowardly young punk . vig ( or money king ) be a story about how the simple way of life can never be the status quo . this be a story about commitment and responsibility and sacrifice and do what be right . great movie and a touching tale .