House of Games: Mamet's Mind Games Still Mess With Me

Okay, so I just rewatched 'House of Games' (1987). Seriously underrated David Mamet, guys! I know he didn't DIRECT it, so "unknown director" is kinda correct, but he wrote it and it's SO Mamet. It's all about manipulation and psychology, and it gets under your skin. Like, you empathize with Margaret (Lindsay Crouse), the psychiatrist, even though you're screaming at the TV for her NOT to fall for Mike's (Joe Mantegna) BS. Specifically, that scene where she's "helping" him with the poker game... the tension is insane! You KNOW it's a setup, she knows it's a setup... but she's so drawn in by the thrill and the challenge. And Mantegna is just PERFECTION as the slick conman. The whole movie feels like a con, even on the audience. I love films that play with my perception like that. The dialogue is also peak Mamet. Sharp, precise, almost theatrical. It's not naturalistic AT ALL, and that's what makes it so captivating. It's a little slow-burn, I guess, so maybe not for everyone hopping for jump scares every five minutes, but the psychological horror of it all is really effective. Anyone else find themselves weirdly rooting for the cons at times?? No spoilers, but the ending...ugh. So good, but makes you feel kinda dirty, ya know? Definitely worth checking out if you haven't seen it and you like a brain-twisting thriller. And if you HAVE seen it, let's discuss!! I'm dying to hear other people's takes on this one.