Usually when a western is made it involves some folks dressed in drab clothing, with the type of personality issues that only modern pharmaceuticals can fix. If you are Clint Eastwood in a western, they don’t even bother to give your character a name. Watching movies like this for any length of time can send anyone in a crying jag to their nearest therapist. Instead of expensive mental health sessions though, all they would need to do is sit down and watch the Mel Gibson film, “Maverick” for a little while. After watching this movie most people will be in a great mood.

This movie is based on the old James Garner television series of the same name. Back than Mr. Garner played a very quirky and funny character named Brett Maverick. The modern version of this film with Mel Gibson in the title role carried off the same sense of fun beautifully. Not only did he do the character created by James Garner credit, but they even gave Garner, the original Maverick, and co-starring role in this film.

James Garner, playing Marshall Zane Cooper, does not let Gibson steal the show with the role he created. The charm and understated humor that has been a hallmark of Garner’s career allows him to not only share the stage with Gibson but to steal a scene or two from the Lethal Weapon star. These are not the only ones who hit home runs with their performances though.

Jodie Foster whose name is generally associated with comedic performances about as often as peanut butter is associated with sangria, pulls out a dazzling performance as high maintenance card shark, Annabelle Bransford. After all that time dealing with Hannibal Lecter and being stuck in the Panic Room, Maverick reminds us that she Ms. Foster is actually a very funny.

The premise of the film is along the lines of “a funny thing happened to me on the way to the World Series of Poker”. Brett Maverick, who meets up with wily gambler Annabelle Bransford and a Marshall named Zane Cooper, on his way to the World Series of poker in St. Louis. Maverick's has a problem though, he doesn’t have the $5,000 needed to join the high-stakes contest, (this is a bargain compared to the $10,000 it costs to get in today ) but due to a lot of crooked competition, the occasional attempted homicide and our three heroes trying to scam each other more often then the bad guys, this is easier said than done. It's all played for laughs and action though, so the movie never gets old or boring. In fact, this movie does such a great job of holding your attention that most folks don’t even notice the long running time.

For those who are not familiar with the original series, this movie will not leave you behind. The Garner version of Maverick is not required viewing to enjoy this film, but you might be inspired to watch the old series after seeing this version. For those who are fans of the old series, you will enjoy Gibson’s portrayal of the lead character along with the chemistry between Mel and the original Maverick, James Garner. It gives an almost father and son feel. Overall, this film is a great way to spend two irreplaceable hours of your life.

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