There are many great performances in the Rupert Wyatt’s THE GAMBLER (now playing in theaters): Mark Wahlberg flexes his dramatic muscles, John Goodman is intense and hilarious, Jessica Lange is amazing as always, and both Brie Larson and Michael Williams are solid.

But the most remarkable thing is to have a newcomer like Anthony Kelley giving a strong first impression portraying Lamar Allen, a student and athlete forced to confront a very difficult choice.

I recently sat down with the very down-to-earth young talent to talk about his first Hollywood experience, his Latino roots, and much more. Watch the exclusive interview below.

“Jim Bennett (Academy Award®-nominee Mark Wahlberg) is a risk taker. Both an English professor and a high-stakes gambler, Bennett bets it all when he borrows from a gangster (Michael Kenneth Williams) and offers his own life as collateral. Always one step ahead, Bennett pits his creditor against the operator of a gambling ring (Alvin Ing) and leaves his dysfunctional relationship with his wealthy mother (Academy Award®-winner Jessica Lange) in his wake. He plays both sides, immersing himself in an illicit, underground world while garnering the attention of Frank (John Goodman), a loan shark with a paternal interest in Bennett’s future. As his relationship with a student (Brie Larson) deepens, Bennett must take the ultimate risk for a second chance…”