The Casino Heist: Why John Travolta’s ‘High Rollers’ Was Panned by Critics

John Travolta’s newest film is titled “High Rollers”
The casino heist flick is being met with negative reviews
The movie was partially filmed at the Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort in Mississippi

John Travolta has delivered classics throughout his illustrious career, but his films often explore the high-stakes drama of the underworld, frequently touching upon the treacherous world of the casino heist. While he has starred in celebrated works like “Saturday Night Fever” and “Pulp Fiction,” his later cinematic endeavors have focused more intently on the gritty realities of high-roller gambles. His latest offering, “High Rollers,” perfectly embodies this transition into the dangerous landscape of a casino heist.

“High Rollers” is a sequel to 2024’s “Cash Out,” which followed Travolta’s character, Mason Goddard, in a bank heist. In this new installment, Goddard must break into the safe of a casino resort to rescue his kidnapped girlfriend, portrayed by Gina Gershon.

This film is currently being screened in select theatres in both the United States and the United Kingdom. However, it has been widely criticized, with many viewers expressing disappointment.

The Production Background

Filmed in April 2023 at the Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort along the Biloxi Back Bay, “High Rollers” showcases the charm of its location, though film reviewers seem unimpressed.

Critical Response

On IMDb, the film sits at a mere 3.8/10 rating based on over 1,000 reviews, while on Google, it has a dismal average score of just 1.6/5 from 53 reviews. Critics like Leslie Felperin from The Hollywood Reporter have not held back, labelling it a “cheap knockoff of ‘Ocean’s Eleven.’”

‘High Rollers’ is a heart-slowing work of staggering stupidity and charmlessness. I found it quite frankly dull, except when its flaws became so egregious you couldn’t help but laugh.

Felperin has also critiqued the portrayal of the Scarlet Pearl Casino, which in the film is presented as a luxurious gambling venue. However, she describes it as resembling a “seedy regional gambling den” that can be hired cheaply.

Is This Travolta’s Worst?

This movie raises questions about Travolta’s filmography, which has seen its share of unsuccessful projects. Over the years, he has received nominations for 11 Golden Raspberry Awards, with some critics suggesting that “High Rollers” might rank among his worst efforts.

Winner of Worst Actor and Worst Screen Couple in 2001 for “Battlefield Earth.”
Nominated for Worst Actor of the Decade for “Battlefield Earth,” “Domestic Disturbance,” and “Swordfish” in 2010.
Received Worst Actor Razzie in 2020 for both “The Fanatic” and “Trading Point.”

Among his other films that have been subjected to harsh criticism are “Staying Alive,” “Two of a Kind,” “Perfect,” “The Experts,” and “Gotti.” Given the current responses, it will be interesting to see if audiences have an appetite for a potential third film in the “Cash Out” series.

In Summary

“High Rollers” may be a cinematic flop emanating from a seasoned star like John Travolta. While the film attempts to grapple with the excitement of a casino heist, the overarching narrative and execution have failed to win over audiences and critics alike. Only time will tell if this disappointing venture translates into further sequels or if Travolta will move on to greener pastures in his film career.