Paul Schrader wraps “The Card Counter” – UPDATE – Focus to distribute

Last Updated on August 2, 2021

In the wake of COVID-19 and so many films being shut-down mid-shoot, many are worried that some of these movies may never see the light of day, with smaller-budgeted indie films especially vulnerable. One such film was Paul Schrader’s follow-up to FIRST REFORMED, THE CARD COUNTER, which had its shoot suspended five days away from the end of principal photography when a crew member tested positive for COVID-19. However, this particular story has a happy ending, with Schrader announcing via his Facebook page that THE CARD COUNTER has finally wrapped production, with him able to complete the film in a COVID-safe shoot in Mississippi. 

The film stars Oscar Isaac, and according to its official synopsis:

The film, written and directed by Schrader, follows William Tell (Isaac), a gambler and former serviceman who sets out to reform a young man seeking revenge on a mutual enemy from their past. Tell just wants to play cards. His spartan existence on the casino trail is shattered when he is approached by Cirk, a vulnerable and angry young man seeking help to execute his plan for revenge on a military colonel. Tell sees a chance at redemption through his relationship with Cirk. Gaining backing from mysterious gambling financier La Linda, Tell takes Cirk with him on the road, going from casino to casino until the unlikely trio set their sights on winning the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. But keeping Cirk on the straight-and-narrow proves impossible, dragging Tell back into the darkness of his past.

The film co-stars Tye Sheridan, Willem Dafoe, and Tiffany Haddish. It’s also executive produced by Martin Scorsese. 

UPDATE: Focus Features has acquired distribution rights out of the Cannes Virtual Market.