This was a funny gimmick. Did this actor do it in all his films? Was this to emphasize the fact that he was a gambler? Any thoughts?
Life is for lovers, and lovers are for life.
It probably was, because many experienced poker players can easily roll poker chips or coins on their fingers.
shareI think it was just a part of this film, because Sam was a gambler. Probably a habit Sam picked up shortly after he left Iverstown the first time.
~~
JimHutton (1934-79) & ElleryQueen
I can't remember seeing Van Heflin doing that before. It looks a very tricky thing to do. I don't think that it has any meaning in the story though. Dana Andrews in 'Laura' and Humphrey Bogart in 'The Caine Mutiny' are just two examples where a character is at play with his hands. Not coins. But using a device in their hands as a mannerism without it becoming a part of the story.
shareI watched the movie today on TCM and Ben Mankiewicz gave the introduction. He said that Van Heflin hung out with a bunch of gamblers to pick up on some mannerisms to bring to the movie. They didn't show any gambling scenes, it was just mentioned that the character was a gambler, so Van Heflin did this trick to make it seem more realistic that he was a gambler. Van Heflin was a true professional.
shareI was just watching this. I picked up on that too. Info about this was one of the reasons I came here! LOL! You can usually find the answers on the good ole message boards!
This movie is one that I hadn't seen in quite a while. I'm surprised that it isn't talked about more.
The cast was great. The writing is very clever. Excellent movie!
I thought that was why he did it. Heflin was such a great actor, and this was one of his best roles.
shareHeflin never did the trick in any other movie.
share