Greg Jacobs' debut feature is a faithful Americanization of the 2001 Argentine hit Nueve Reinas. Seasoned con man Gaddis (John C. Reilly) intercepts young grifter Rodrigo (Diego Luna) and agrees to tutor him. And just in time, because Gaddis has gotten word of a hot big-money scam involving rare currency that could use Rodrigo's assistance. This fast-paced caper soon involves Gaddis' bickering sister (Maggie Gyllenhaal) and the usual complement of con-world hangers-on. The enjoyment of this genre lies with the behind-the-con scenes we're suddenly privy to -- though viewers should always be leery of such easy pleasures: Fanciful distraction is the oldest trick in the book. The three leads do able work in what is mostly a snappy bon-bon. Reilly, especially, is a real treat as the brusque-then-smooth Gaddis. Keep an eye on your wallet. Manor 
CRIMINAL
