"The Gambler" is a 1974 film directed by Karel Reisz, based on the novel by Fyodor Dostoevsky. The story follows Axel Freed, played by James Caan, a literature professor with a dangerous gambling addiction. As he spirals deeper into debt, he becomes entangled with loan sharks and struggles to balance his life between academia and the thrill of high-stakes gambling. The film explores themes of risk, addiction, and the consequences of one's choices. It features a strong supporting cast, including Paul Sorvino and Lauren Hutton, and is noted for its gritty portrayal of the gambling underworld. The film has gained a cult following over the years.