Today’s quick review: Maverick. Bret Maverick (Mel Gibson), a quick-witted gambler, needs just $3,000 more to pay the entry fee of a poker tournament that has a pot of half a million dollars. While trying to win the money in a card game, Bret accidentally antagonizes Angel (Alfred Molina), a dangerous man. Meanwhile, Bret meets two new traveling companions: Marshal Zane Cooper (James Garner) and Annabelle Bransford (Jodie Foster), a charming thief.
Maverick is a Western comedy directed by Richard Donner and based on the classic television series. Mel Gibson stars as Bret Maverick, an amiable poker player with a fast hand, a sharp eye, and a knack for getting into trouble. Maverick is an upbeat adventure about the mishaps that await Bret on the way to the tournament that could make his fortune. Likable characters, light comedy, and a fair amount of action make the movie an enjoyable experience.
The greatest strength of Maverick is its cast. Mel Gibson, Jodie Foster, and James Garner play off each other wonderfully, and their banter keeps the movie entertaining from start to finish. Maverick also features a creative plot that puts its own spin on the Western genre. Familiar ingredients find new uses in a story that never drags or feels dull. Finally, Maverick finds natural ways to work in action scenes that keep the movie exciting.
Maverick is a well-rounded movie with broad appeal. Its talented cast and ebullient humor make it an easy watch, while its story has enough substance to feel worthwhile. Not everyone will like what the movie has to offer, and the movie is not groundbreaking, but any fans of Mel Gibson or the lighter side of the Westren genre would do well to give it a try.
For an action comedy with the same lead actor and director, try Lethal Weapon. For a romantic adventure with similar appeal, try Romancing the Stone. For a Western with a similar sense of adventure, try Tombstone or Silverado. For a Western action comedy with more over-the-top action, try The Lone Ranger.
[7.1 out of 10 on IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0110478/). I give it a 7.0 for unabashed fun.