Born to Win

Born to Win is a 1971 American comedy-drama film directed by Ivan Passer and starring George Segal, Paula Prentiss, and Karen Black. The film follows the story of J, a heroin addict and small-time crook in New York City, who is trying to escape his addiction and start a new life.

J (George Segal) is a man with many problems. He is a drug addict, a compulsive gambler, and a petty thief who can't seem to get his life together. After getting arrested and going through detox in prison, J is released and attempts to stay clean, but finds it difficult to resist the temptations of his old life. He turns to a new woman, Parm (Karen Black), who is also addicted to heroin, for comfort and companionship.

Desperate for money to support their addiction, J and Parm decide to rob a drug dealer. They succeed in stealing a large amount of heroin, but things quickly go downhill when they are pursued by a dangerous gangster named Vic (Hector Elizondo).

J's only chance of escaping his old life is to come up with a plan to get the heroin off his hands and out of his life for good. Along the way, he must confront his addiction and the demons that led him down this path in the first place.

The film is a thought-provoking look at addiction, desperation, and the struggle to overcome both. George Segal delivers a powerful performance as J, capturing the character's inner turmoil and conflict with remarkable sensitivity and depth. Paula Prentiss plays J's ex-girlfriend, the only person who understands and cares about him, while Karen Black shines in her role as Parm, a character who is both vulnerable and resilient.

Born to Win is a gritty, unflinching portrayal of drug addiction and its consequences. It is a film that does not shy away from the harsh realities of addiction or the destructive nature of drug use. However, it also offers a message of hope and redemption, showing that it is possible to overcome addiction and find a new life.

The film is notable for its use of location shooting in New York City, capturing the gritty, urban landscape of the city in the early 1970s. The soundtrack, featuring music by The Lovin' Spoonful and other notable artists of the time, adds to the film's authentic, raw feel.

Overall, Born to Win is a powerful, moving film that explores the complexities of addiction and the journey towards recovery. It is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, leaving a lasting impression on viewers and reminding us of the human capacity for resilience and change.