Arbitrage (*** out of ****)

Lead characters don't have to be likable nor be pure heinous. They need substance, development and something intriguing. Robert Miller played by a mesmerizing Richard Gere is such a character. A white collar hedge fund magnate who only thinks of himself. He analyzes problems and people and how they effect his ultimate life goals. This puts him in trouble with his wife (Susan Sarandon), his daughter/protege (Brit Marling) and his mistress (Laetitia Casta). However one of those people he ends dead through his fault which will set a detective (Tim Roth) after him. Robert Miller must match wits with the law and his family.

This is a tight and well made thriller. It's filled with talented actors who all perform well. Richard Gere isn't exactly an actor you think of for fantastic performances but much like The Hoax Gere is capable of moments of brilliance. Very well constructed and paced, Arbitrage is exciting from beginning to end. The only fault worth mentioning is the film treats Miller's problems often very separate up until the finale. His corporate life and his criminal action don't collide as well as they should. Putting Miller on more of a edge with the combination seems like a better route. Regardless Arbitrage is a wonderful little film that shows intrigue should be built by the film itself and not by initial expectations. 

*** out of ****