“All In – The Poker Movie” is set to premier on March 23, with the initial showing taking place in the city of New York. Originally conceived as a documentary on the game’s explosion of popularity, “All In” is finally ready after an extended period of delays.
According to the movie’s Facebook page, the purpose behind “All In” lies mainly in storytelling. Specifically, Director Douglas Tirola and Producer Susan Bedusa were seeking to explore the game’s re-emergence as a legitimate cultural force. Prior to the film’s debut, the pair are planning to hold a sneak preview at the Avon Theatre in Stamford, Connecticut.
It will be interesting to see how the movie addresses the events surrounding Black Friday, which actually forced the filmmakers to alter their original product. Before the government crackdown, the film had been scheduled for a Fall 2011 release. So, how will they document the struggle of the nation’s millions of online players, and what will the members of the cast have to say on the subject?
One of the credited names to appear on the film will have more questions to answer than most. Howard Lederer, one of the men behind Full Tilt Poker, has been all but silent since the dubious inner workings of his company were brought to light. One wonders if his involvement with the film came before or after the events of Black Friday. Either way, it’ll be interesting to see what he has to say.
Other big names on the cast list include Phil Hellmuth, Daniel Negreanu, Annie Duke, Chris Moneymaker, and “Rounders” star Matt Damon. Though New Yorkers will get the first taste of the completed product, the rest of the nation will have to wait until the end of April.