This movie is not about poker & card counting per se. It is about holding it together after a traumatic past. The mindless routine keeps one on track & focused. His efforts to help the son of a former military friend bring depth to the character & La Linda played by Tiffany Hadish is the perfect reality foil. Oscar Isaac is flawless & Tye Sheridan & Wlliam Dafoe are excellent. There is graphic violence of the trauma, but I highly recommend this film. The plot is still turning in my mind.