HBO Chronicles Gambling With New Horse Racing Series 'Luck'

HBO has been through the gambling underworld within the networks popular series' over the years. The Sopranos devoted an entire series around the mafia world, with many episodes dealing directly with illegal sports betting. Now, HBO is again tackling the gambling industry, but from a completely different prospective.

On Sunday, the pilot episode airs of "Luck." The series will feature Dustin Hoffman and Nick Nolte, and will dive into the inner workings of the horse racing industry. The series was shot at the famed Santa Anita race track, and has many moments that will seen foreign to those who have never been around a track.

"It's an act of faith," said David Milch, the producer of Luck, when describing why he kept the "racing" language instead of changing the dialogue so people would understand. "Your fundamental response is to stay true to the deepest nature and intention of the materials. That's what we did."

Dustin Hoffman plays Chester Bernstein, a major crime figure that is just coming out of jail when the series begins. The storyline revolves around Hoffman's character purchasing a prized horse, with Dennis Farina's character being the "alleged" owner of the horse. Several real life jockeys and trainers are involved throughout the series.

As for Hoffman, he was excited about the opportunity to play a character in a series that was shot with the true essence of its subject in mind. The ability to shoot the scenes right on the track gave a real feel to the scenes, and it is something that Hoffman is thankful for.

"I have not had this experience before," said Hoffman. "You can't get a shot at doing your best work in the studio system. They can get involved in kind of a quasi-creative way, but they buck heads with people they shouldn't be bucking heads with."

Luck airs for the first time Sunday, and will have nine total episodes in season one. HBO is hoping to capitalize on what has become an increasingly gambling tolerant public. Gambling expansion is taking place all across the US, although most of the expansion centers around casinos. The racing industry has been the beneficiary of some of the expansion, with lawmakers allowing slots at state race tracks in states such as New York, Florida, and Massachusetts.

January 27, 2012
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
Submit News!

Early Super Bowl Betting Odds: Patriots Favored Again Over Giants
Ladbrokes Purchases US Gaming Company In Advance Of Sports Betting
NFL Championship Sunday Betting Odds: Patriots and Niners Favored
Fantasy Sports Gambling Becoming A Hit With Online Poker Players
Packers And Patriots The Betting Favorites To Reach Super Bowl