October 3rd, 2006
Ben Mackay

Eric Bana hits the Hollywood poker scene

The Aussie star has been taking Hollywood by storm. We all know how awesome he was playing Mark "Chopper" Read in Chopper and before that as hilarious Ray Martin on Full Frontal. Now from carpenter to Hollywood hotshot, Bana is now showing his versatility once again as playing a poker pro, Huck Cheever in Lucky you trying to take the crown as 2003 World Series of Poker champion. His main rival is his father, played by Robert Duval. Meanwhile trying to steal the love of the lovely lounge singer played by Drew Barrymore.

We've all been waiting for the next poker flick to hit the screens since Rounders, and this one just might possibly be that one. Expect some great action as there are many real pro's who feature in this one including...

Johnny Chan - 10 World Series of Poker Bracelets winner. We've all seen him in "Rounders" and it probably wouldn't be the same with out him in it. Johnny plays himself.

Barry Greenstein - The modern day "Robin Hood" of poker, already a billionaire he donates all his winnings to charity. Barry plays himself.

Doyle Brunson - Also a 10 World Series of Poker Bracelets winner. He's old, but he's still got it. "Dolly" plays himself in this movie and he also acted as a consultant.

Jennifer Harman - She's got a couple of World Series of Poker Bracelets to her name and even though a lady, still ranks amoungst the best poker players in the world. She plays Shannon Kincaid in this film.

Mimi Tran - Taught by Barry Greenstein himself, Mimi has become a pro poker player in her own right. Mimi plays herself.

Most people don't know the effort Bana went through to prepare himself for the role as "Chopper". He spent countless hours with Read learning his mannerisms and speech, but the major transformation came by Bana stacking on a massive 20kg's and 5 hours worth of full-body makeup tattoo's each day. His commitment to a role is second to none and should shine through in this role as well. Who knows, we may even see him winning a major poker event just like Ben Affleck. But until then, I'll wait for the movie to hit the screen...

-BM