The Player: Élie Wajeman blends theater and poker with Pio Marmaï

The theater by day, poker games by night: The Gambler, the new film by Élie Wajeman, follows a theater director whose addiction also threatens his troupe’s work. Pio Marmaï, William Lebghil, Sarah Le Picard and Suzy Bemba star, with Hippolyte Girardot appearing in a supporting role.

Ivan Katz is preparing a production of Chekhov’s Platonov. When he loses the production funds gambling, he tries to win the money back in underground games. Rehearsals continue as his daily life is split between the demands of the show and the risks he takes at the poker table.

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After Night Doctor, Élie Wajeman reunites with Pio Marmaï and Sarah Le Picard for this psychological thriller. The filmmaker co-wrote the screenplay with Vincent Sornaga, in collaboration with Agnès de Sacy. Produced by Diaphana Films and co-produced with Artémis Productions, the feature film will open the 2026 Sarlat Film Festival.

To plan your next movie outings, check out the films to see in January, the films currently showing in cinemas and the thrillers to catch in theaters.

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