Other reviewers have noted that "Gambit" isn't a film that draws out lots of laughter. Rather, it has witty lines and very clever scenes that are quite funny; with an occasional goofy bit that is just too funny not to laugh at. It's a bit of a combination of sophisticated (witty dialog) and goofy (silly scenes), which makes for a quirky comedy overall.
This isn't a large production film, but it has quite a cast of actors with diverse characters. They all seem to meld together well (or not so, as the script intends). Colin Firth and Cameron Diaz are very good as the leads. But, the supporting cast and bit performances have some of the funniest lines. Alan Rickman is riotously funny. I have to laugh in the scenes where he wears a disapproving expression of "what's Deane doing now." Rickman is one of those actors whose wonderful humor drives home by his frowns and other facial expressions. When a line comes with the look, it's most often over the top hilarious.
This is a wonderful funny film fiasco. I think an opening scene sets the stage for viewers to know they are in for an enjoyable and entertaining film. Colin Firth (Harry Deane) and Tom Courtenay (The Major) are on an errand from England, have landed in the U.S. and drive up to a gas and shop station somewhere in New Mexico rodeo country. They go inside where Joe Berryman is the gas station cashier.
Deane says, "Excuse me. We were given to understand that there was an equestrian tourney in this area." The cashier says, "Well, we got a law attorney. Don't know his religion. Up downtown Alpine. He's a fairy. Moved here from Albuquerque. It'll be five, no six years ago come May. Not that I judge."
