Arbitrage Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Richard Gere’s character is a master of the universe who can’t drive, so he pays it forward (badly).

🍿 Arbitrage: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to Robert Miller’s World

Robert Miller, a hedge fund magnate, appears to have it all: wealth, a loving family, and success. However, beneath the surface, his company is in deep financial trouble due to a bad investment in a Russian copper mine. To conceal his losses, Miller has taken a large loan and is desperately trying to sell his company before the truth is revealed.

The Car Accident and Cover-Up

One night, while driving with his mistress, Julie, Miller falls asleep at the wheel, resulting in a fatal car accident. Julie is killed, and Miller, fearing the scandal will jeopardize the sale of his company and expose his fraud, flees the scene. He calls Jimmy Grant, the son of his former chauffeur, for help, setting off a chain of events that further complicates his situation.

Investigation and Family Tensions

Detective Bryer begins investigating the accident and quickly suspects Miller’s involvement. Meanwhile, Miller’s daughter, Brooke, discovers the financial irregularities in the company and confronts her father. The pressure mounts as Miller tries to juggle the investigation, the sale of his company, and the growing tensions within his family.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Robert Miller (Richard Gere): A hedge fund magnate who desperately tries to sell his company while covering up fraud and a deadly car accident.
• Ellen Miller (Susan Sarandon): Robert’s wife who is aware of his infidelity and financial misdealings and uses that knowledge to her advantage.
• Brooke Miller (Brit Marling): Robert’s daughter and employee who discovers her father’s fraudulent activities and faces a moral dilemma.
• Det. Michael Bryer (Tim Roth): A determined detective who is relentless in his pursuit of Robert Miller, convinced of his guilt.
• Jimmy Grant (Nate Parker): The son of Robert’s former chauffeur who is unwittingly pulled into Robert’s cover-up and faces serious consequences.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Robert Miller: “Money, more than anything, explains the world.” – Robert Miller states his philosophy, revealing his core belief that money is the ultimate motivator and explanation for everything.
• Robert Miller: “I’m a child of the ’50s. They didn’t think that bad things might happen. They knew that bad things would happen.” – Miller reflects on his upbringing and how it shaped his worldview, foreshadowing his preparedness for crises.
• Detective Bryer: “You think you’re above the law, don’t you?” – Detective Bryer confronts Miller, highlighting the theme of wealthy individuals believing they are untouchable.
• Ellen Miller: “What’s your price, Robert?” – Ellen confronts Robert, suggesting his actions and the compromises he’s willing to make have a cost.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $12,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $7,919,574
• Worldwide Gross: $35,485,056

💥 Arbitrage Reviews

Personal Review

I really enjoyed Arbitrage! The first time I saw it, I was completely hooked by Richard Gere’s performance. He perfectly captures the charming yet ruthless nature of a Wall Street tycoon. That scene where he’s trying to cover up the accident while simultaneously negotiating the business deal? My heart was pounding! It’s a smart thriller that made me think about the compromises people make for power and money. Definitely worth watching!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of financial thrillers”
  • “Viewers interested in dramas about wealth and power”
  • “People who appreciate Richard Gere’s performances”
  • “Adults interested in morally ambiguous characters”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Infidelity”
  • “Fraud”
  • “Car accident and death”
  • “Strong language”

Professional Reviews

• Rotten Tomatoes: “A smart, taut thriller with a particularly strong performance from Richard Gere, Arbitrage offers an enthralling glimpse into the world of high finance.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “Richard Gere delivers a nuanced performance as a hedge fund manager whose carefully constructed world begins to crumble. The film explores themes of ambition, morality, and the consequences of unchecked power in a compelling way.
• Variety: “Richard Gere is outstanding in a slick Wall Street thriller about money, morals, and murder. Nicholas Jarecki delivers suspense and great performances.

Audience Reactions

Richard Gere’s complex and nuanced performance was a highlight for many viewers.: Audiences appreciated the film’s smart writing and suspenseful plot, which kept them engaged throughout.

Tim Roth’s portrayal of the determined detective added an extra layer of tension.: The supporting cast, particularly Susan Sarandon and Brit Marling, were praised for their strong performances.

Overall Consensus: Arbitrage is a well-acted, suspenseful thriller that offers a compelling look at the world of high finance and the moral compromises people make to maintain power and wealth.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Richard Gere replaced Al Pacino in the lead role just weeks before filming began.”
• “The film was shot in and around New York City, adding authenticity to the Wall Street setting.”
• “Writer/Director Nicholas Jarecki is the brother of Andrew Jarecki, who directed ‘Capturing the Friedmans’ and ‘All Good Things’.”
• “Graydon Carter, editor of Vanity Fair, plays James Mayfield, a financier looking to purchase Miller’s company.”

🖥️ How to Watch Arbitrage?

Arbitrage is available for streaming on various platforms. You can find it on platforms such as Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu for rent or purchase. Check your local listings for availability in your region. Additionally, keep an eye out for potential broadcast schedules on cable networks.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Arbitrage, you might like these similar films:

• Wall Street (1987): Explores the themes of greed, ambition, and insider trading within the world of high finance.
• Margin Call (2011): Focuses on the high-stakes decisions made by investment bankers during the early stages of the 2008 financial crisis.
• Michael Clayton (2007): A corporate fixer becomes entangled in a dangerous conspiracy after uncovering a dark secret.
• The Wolf of Wall Street (2013): Offers a look at the excesses and corruption of Wall Street through the story of Jordan Belfort.
• Too Big to Fail (2011): Depicts the events of the 2008 financial crisis and the government’s efforts to prevent a total collapse of the system.

🛒 Arbitrage Related Products

• Richard Gere: An Officer and a Gentleman – Blu-Ray: Relive Richard Gere’s early classic that launched his career, showcasing his undeniable charisma and star power. A must-have for any Gere fan!
• Wall Street (Blu-ray): Oliver Stone’s classic film offers an uncompromising look at Wall Street excess. A cautionary tale about greed and ambition.
• Succession: The Complete Series: The complete collection of the critically acclaimed show. A series that goes into the lives of an extremely wealthy and powerful family as they contemplate the future of their business.
• Devil’s Advocate [Blu-ray]: A hotshot lawyer gets recruited to work for a major firm in New York City, soon discovering it might have a connection with the Devil. Starring Al Pacino, Keanu Reeves, and Charlize Theron.

🎧 Soundtrack

Arbitrage features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “So Soft” – performed by Gary Anderson
• “I See Who You Are” – performed by Björk

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Arbitrage Movie – Richard Gere

Want to understand Richard Gere’s character in ‘Arbitrage’ a little better? This video dives deep into who Robert Miller is and what makes him tick. I found it super helpful in understanding his choices throughout the movie!

Diane Explains Basic Arbitrage to Bow – black-ish

Ever wondered what ‘arbitrage’ actually means? This funny clip from Black-ish breaks it down using Beyoncé dolls! I found it hilarious and surprisingly informative.

✨ Rate