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It exudes a particularly anxiety-inducing tone to its general style of cinematography and sound design, which remains a main talking point among fans to this day. If you happened to miss this critical darling from a few years back, it’s undoubtedly worth checking out. The heist is shown on screen, but things get interesting when Pitt’s character, a hitman named Jackie Cogan comes into play. And although there are some questionable choices of editing with little to write home about in the technical departments of camerawork, the overall project was definitely a success. Kicking things off with a bit of an anomaly, The Hangover (2009) is the only clear-cut comedy movie on the entire list. That said, this modern hit is in the end definitely a film of actual quality, with positive ratings from critics and even a win at the Golden Globes for Best Musical or Comedy.
Casino Royale
Throughout the film, viewers will get to see Eddie play against a billiards champion, fall in love with a woman with plenty of emotional baggage and come into contact with an experienced gambler who wishes to take Eddie under his wing. The stakes are truly raised within this classic film when Eddie decides to go all in during a high-stakes matchup. Tom Cruise appears in his second gambling movie role as car dealer Charlie Babbitt, who doesn’t have the best relationship with his now-deceased father. After finding out that a massive sum of inheritance money is being left to an autistic brother (played by Dustin Hoffman) he never even knew he had, Charlie gets the bright idea to somehow lift all of that money from his older sibling. This scheme soon leads to Charlie taking his autistic brother on the road with him for a life-changing excursion. All the while, Charlie relies on his brother’s amazing mathematical skills to help him win big at every gaming table they come across during a stop in Las Vegas.
House of Games
The Ocean’s Eleven team is made up of con men, mechanics, surveillance experts, pickpockets, and even an acrobat. Well, it’s not exactly easy, but a team of pros who have lots of previous heist experience should be able to pull it off. Gambling movies and caper movies often overlap, and that’s certainly the case with The Sting. Starring Paul Newman—man, he sure likes to hustle—The Sting follows two pro grifters who try to con the mob. Based on Walter Tevis’s 1984 novel, The Color of Money is a kind of sequel to The Hustler (also written by Tevis and starring Newman). Directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck take us all across the South, from Memphis to Mississippi, as they piece together bits, blues, and bumbling characters.
- Whether you enjoy gambling yourself or prefer to let fictional characters make the bets, the best gambling movies are always good for a rush of adrenaline.
- To do this, the Kid must outdo Lancey, considered one of the best poker players in the era.
- Shade received some mixed reviews and feedback from critics and the public, but it is a good movie with style and intricate card tricks.
- And in this case, the epic was directed by Martin Scorsese in one of his most ambitious films to-date.
- Molly’s Game is based on the true story of Molly Bloom, a world-renowned Olympic-class skier.
- ‘Bob le Flambeur’ is widely admired for its innovative, stylistic techniques including the pioneering use of handheld cameras, and has widely influenced many American films on the same subject.
- “Casino Royale” redefined the Bond franchise with its intense action and psychological depth.
- To avenge his partner’s death, Hooker teams up with the best grifter in the game, Henry Gondorff, played by Paul Newman.
- Mississippi Grind is the perfect road trip film that just so happens to be tied to big money bets and a nail-biting poker game.
Essential Gambling Movies Every Gambler Should See Once
When one of them finds a lost wallet with a winning lottery ticket inside, it sets off a chain of events that leads to unexpected twists and revelations. The movie is known for its clever storytelling, intricate plot structure, and a series of suspenseful and thought-provoking moments. Casino is an excellent film depicting what happens behind closed doors in Las Vegas, away from the world of sports betting apps and online casinos. The 1995 gambling movie directed by Martin Scorcese stars Robert De Niro as Sam ‘Ace’ Rothstein, an oddsmaker from Chicago who attracts the attention of the Mafia for his skills with numbers.
Rounders (
- He comes across John, played by John C. Reilly, by chance after John has gone broke and takes pity on him.
- Louis’ fine dining establishment attracts a number of shady characters, including two gangsters whom one of Louis’ chefs is indebted to.
- Kicking things off with a bit of an anomaly, The Hangover (2009) is the only clear-cut comedy movie on the entire list.
- Bay of Angels comes from the visually sumptuous director Jacques Demy who was lauded for his artistic visuals and unique approaches to drama.
- Possibly Paul Thomas Anderson’s least known film, Hard Eight tells the story of a veteran gambler who teaches stranger John the tricks of the trade.
- How the movie unfolds can make you forget that it’s based on a true story of 6 MIT students who were taught by their unorthodox math professor Micky Rosa (played by Kevin Spacey) how to count cards.
- These films enchant audiences and leave lasting impressions by capturing the essence of the gambling world and its multifaceted characters.
In Croupier, which translates to “dealer,” Clive Owen plays a struggling novelist who gets a job at the casino. Using the position as research for a new book, he finds himself getting pulled deeper and deeper into gambling-based crime. Directed by the master of French crime thrillers, Jean-Pierre Melville, Bob le Flambeur, a.k.a. Bob the Gambler, is an early masterpiece.
The Captive City
This biopic delves into everything that made Bugsy what he was and how he helped develop Las Vegas into what it is today. Possibly Paul Thomas Anderson’s least known film, Hard Eight tells the story of a veteran gambler who teaches stranger John the tricks of the trade. “Atlantic City” portrays the changing landscape of gambling in the titular city through the eyes of an aging gangster. The film, starring Burt Lancaster and Susan Sarandon, offers a gritty, romantic vision of a bygone era.
- It exudes a particularly anxiety-inducing tone to its general style of cinematography and sound design, which remains a main talking point among fans to this day.
- The movie captures the atmosphere of the Las Vegas casino scene and provides a unique perspective on the role of luck and human relationships.
- Adam Sandler delivers a career-best performance in “Uncut Gems,” playing a jeweler and gambler whose life spirals out of control.
- The film tells the true story of Molly Bloom, a former Olympic-class skier who becomes involved in hosting high-stakes poker games for wealthy and influential players.
The Card Counter
- Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone deliver stellar performances in this epic story of a gambling empire’s rise and fall.
- The film came out at a time when gambling movies were a trend in Hong Kong cinema and it spawned two sequels—’No Risk, No Gain’ and ‘Casino Raiders II’—with different storylines.
- This comedy-drama follows a group of struggling actors trying to navigate the dating scene in Los Angeles, seeking romantic and social success.
- Matt’s character (Mike McDermott) ends up losing a ton of money during a poker game against a Russian gangster.
- And it actually explores its characters to a meaningful extent while also showcasing the inner workings of Vegas.
- The story of “Intacto” revolves around the concept of luck as a tangible and transferable asset.
“The Cooler” is a romantic drama that tells about an unlucky man who works as a “cooler” in a Las Vegas casino. His fortunes take an unexpected turn when he meets and falls in love with a cocktail waitress and his luck begins to change. The movie captures the atmosphere of the Las Vegas casino scene and provides a unique perspective on the role of luck and human relationships. It was praised for its blend of romance and drama, and it garnered several award nominations. “The Card Counter” delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and the consequences of choices. It explores the psychological toll of past trauma and the search for purpose and justice.
Casino (
It tells the story of a professor who recruits 5 exceptionally smart students and exploits their abilities to win millions via gambling. The melodramatic style works against its ambitions and the film comes off as a mere exercise in sentimentality. Nevertheless, it’s a movie that must be seen for the intriguing true story it is based on. How the movie unfolds can make you forget that it’s based on a true story of 6 MIT students who were taught by their unorthodox math professor Micky Rosa (played by Kevin Spacey) how to count cards. After several weekend trips to Las Vegas, they eventually took The Strip casinos for millions of dollars in blackjack winnings. “Croupier” is an understated film that simmers with quiet observations and a subtle neo-noir edge.
‘Molly’s Game’
With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best casino-themed films that have become timeless classics, combining action, intriguing plots, and memorable characters. Directed by John Dahl, this is the only film on the list that has gone down as a true cult classic. It received lukewarm responses from critics upon release, and didn’t even double its $12 million budget when playing in theaters throughout the world. The debut film by Paul Thomas Anderson, Hard Eight starts off as a free-wheeling film about a casino pro (Philip Baker Hall) and his new protege (John C. Reilly), who start winning big at the casino. Everything changes when the young craps player falls in love with Clementine (Gwyneth Paltrow), forcing him to break some of his mentor’s rules to disastrous effects. If you’re feeling lucky and want to see what that luck can get you, put down the FanDuel app and check out the 20 best gambling movies you can watch to satisfy your hunger for more.
5 Card Stud
With strong performances, excellent action sequences, and a tight script, “Casino Royale” shines as one of the finest films in the lengthy James Bond series and as one of the overall best gambling films out there. Few gambling movies portray gambling less as a talent and more as a coping mechanism, like Paul Schrader’s 2021 crime drama The Card Counter. Oscar Issac plays card counting wizard William Tell who teaches himself how to count cards in a military prison to practice the patience and restraint from succumbing to the darker impulses that landed him in prison in the first place. Throughout the film, this control of one’s decisions central to gambling is what he tries to instill in a Cirk Baufort (Tye Sheridan) seeking to avenge his father’s death lethally. When films like The Card Counter uncover the psychological connection between being good at gambling and dealing with being a human, they create something truly magical that stands the test of time.
Life inside for him is utterly miserable and he is dying to liberate himself when he meets a gorgeous cocktail waitress and falls in love with her. ‘Cooler’ does not break any new grounds but is highly entertaining, replete with some fine performances from its leads. Influenced by Martin Scorsese‘s ‘Casino’, the film takes place, for the most part, inside the casino and tells quite an interesting story with well etched characters in a very unpretentious manner. Perhaps not among the best movies released in recent times, but ‘Flutter’ is a lovely little indie flick that makes a brave attempt at exploring the dangerous depths of gambling.
California Split follows both men on their wild journey as they look to truly hit the jackpot. Bleek’s right-hand man, Giant, played by Lee himself, is in deep with his bookie for gambling debts, putting his best friend in jeopardy. The film comments on the themes of friendship and loyalty, no more evident than in the relationship of Bleek and Giant.
Top 25 Casino Films
He got the idea to build a hotel and casino resort, the Flamingo, during one of his trips to Vegas to check up on a gambling joint. If you’re up for a unique Netflix gambling movie that combines casino heists, tons of action, and zombies, then you should definitely give Army of the Dead a shot. Through her charismatic personality, she attracts higher caliber players and eventually starts running her own games, which gained her a lot of money.
Casino
After getting word that Le Chiffre wants to use high stakes poker to raise money for terrorist activities, MI6 enlists the help of Mr. Bond to try to beat him at the poker table. Not only does Bond show off amazing bluffing strategies but it also manages to break down Le Chiffre organization. This Robert Rossen film was an adaptation of the novel of the same name written by Walter Tevis, who also wrote “The Man Who Fell to Earth” and “The Queen’s Gambit,” two more novels to receive high-profile adaptations.
George Clooney stars as Dapper Danny Ocean, a thief who’s up to no good just hours after being released from his parole. That ragtag group of fellow thieves consists of familiar faces such as Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Don Cheadle, Bernie Mack, etc. On an annual basis, the town of Laredo, Texas becomes the epicenter for the most important poker game in the state. Five of the wealthiest men in the area come together to risk it all while an interested crowd watches them with bated breath. An ex-gambler ends up wandering into town in the midst of the big poker game and finds himself going right back to his former addiction. When things become too tough to bear for the latest addition to the game, the ex-gambler’s wife steps in to take his place and defy the odds as she takes on her wealthier opposition.
But for a brief moment, before Spacey is being kidnapped and beaten in a hotel room, it’s an interesting look at the science behind smart gambling. Movies about gambling have an inherent drama because, by definition, they’re about risk. The world of high-stakes gambling has long been an enticing playground for filmmakers, inspiring a plethora of stunning films that immerse audiences into the exhilarating casino atmosphere. These movies often feature intricate storylines, captivating characters, and thrilling twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Molly’s Game
From the Safdie Brothers, Uncut Gems follows fast-talking jeweler Howard as he tries to juggle family obligations, his mistress, angry collectors, and mounting debts on top of his insatiable thirst for gambling. One of James Caan’s best movies, The Gambler focuses on a literature professor with a gambling vice who must avoid loan sharks when they begin to circle. A perennial down-on-his-luck guy works as a gambling jinx, known as a cooler, in an old school casino until his luck changes for the better when he becomes smitten with a cocktail waitress, much to his cutthroat boss’s frustration.
As you might expect, there’s a ringleader, Danny Ocean (played by George Clooney), and a team of high risk-takers who want to execute one of the most elaborate casino heists in history. Vegas is probably not the right place to go for your honeymoon, a subtle fact Jack Singer (played by Nicolas Cage) learns the hard way. After burning through his life-savings of $65,000 at the poker table, Jack who’s about to get married to Betsy (Sarah Jessica Parker) is forced to lend his fiancée to the winning opponent and con artist, Tommy Korman (James Caan). If you keep a tab on what’s happening in the world of poker, then Stu Ungar needs no introduction.
Adam takes on the role of a lovable NYC jeweler who loves playing it big when it comes to betting. When he makes one of the biggest bets of his life, his world starts to cave in around him as debt collectors come calling. Uncut Gems follows Adam’s character as he looks to keep his life intact as his high-risk gambling endeavors threaten to tear it all apart. Hard Eight features three A-list actors that you might not have expected to see in a film such as this one – John C. Reilly, Gwyneth Paltrow and Samuel Jackson. When a professional gambler by the name of Sydney runs into a fellow gambler named John, Sydney takes John under his wing and teaches him how to truly be successful in the world of gambling.
“Intacto” is known for its stylish and atmospheric presentation, blending fantasy, drama, and thriller together. Her addiction not only jeopardizes her marriage but also puts her in dangerous situations. “The Lady Gambles” explores the destructive nature of addiction and the consequences it has on relationships https://crazystar-casino.com/mobile/ and personal well-being. As a “film noir”, this movie skillfully portrays the protagonist’s descent into the world of gambling, with elements of suspense. “Revolver” incorporates elements of crime, psychological drama, and neo-noir, focusing on themes such as ego, self-discovery, and the power of the mind.
- The Cincinnati Kid shows that there’s an honor to be had, even in the high-stakes world of big-money poker games.
- ‘Mississippi Grind’ is a film that gets all its basic elements right and manages to transcend the genre trappings.
- Due to its relatable depiction of the era and characters, this movie was called a defining one of its time.
- The drama surrounding the professor’s debts and the ways in which his young protégés attempt to wipe them way makes this film a supremely absorbing experience.
- Well, it’s not exactly easy, but a team of pros who have lots of previous heist experience should be able to pull it off.
- The movie is a great watch both alone and with company, but gambling scenes are few and far between, with most of them bunched up during the latter parts of the film.
- A down on his luck college professor hatches a get rich quick scheme with the aid of three students of his choosing.
- Rounders has become a cult favorite, particularly within the poker community, for its authenticity.
- Shade tells a story of a group of professional card cheats who are planning to pull off a major con in Los Angeles by outsmarting a gangster.
Mississippi Grind probably slipped under your radar, but all critics can agree it’s a hidden gem.
“Two for the Money” delves into the high-stakes world of sports betting, with Al Pacino, Matthew McConaughey, and Rene Russo leading the cast. The film explores the relationship between a former college football star, who becomes a sports handicapper, and his boss, a betting agency magnate. It’s a tale of greed, integrity, and the risky game of predicting sports outcomes, highlighting the psychological and emotional rollercoaster of gambling addiction and the high-pressure world of sports betting.
After losing it all at the casino due to a lifelong addiction, Bob decides he’s going to get the old gang back together and rob the joint—if he can only keep himself away from the tables. No scientific studies have proven if Tom Cruise in the ‘80s could make anything cooler. Still, if there were, the magnetic bravado he brought to pool hustlers in the 1986 film The Color of Money would be all the evidence you need of his infectious coolness. There’s betrayal, enraptured Martin Scorsese directing, and enough banter between Newman and Cruise to make this a must-see classic, gambling or not. You could read up on the seedy history of Sin City, or you could spend close to three hours watching a Martin Scorcese masterpiece. Sam “Ace” Rothstein (Robert DeNiro) unofficially runs the Tangiers Casino in Las Vegas at the direction of the Chicago Mafia and acts as the viewers’ eyes and ears to the unseen machinations of running a casino in Las Vegas.
After her career was derailed by a life-changing injury to her spine, Molly was then put in charge of an underground poker game within the Viper Room in Los Angeles. The film stars Jessica Chastain in the titular role, with supporting efforts from guys like Idris Elba and Michael Cera. And all the performers delivered Sorkin’s world-famous dialogue to a critically acclaimed degree. It’s an endlessly intelligent film that will likely satisfy any gambling addicts looking for a realistic movie about poker — that’s almost entirely due to the wit of Sorkin’s script.
At the end of life, Tevis followed up on the story of “The Hustler” with his final book titled “The Color of Money.” This 25-years-later sequel checked back in with Fast Eddie Felson in the later stages of his life. Martin Scorsese directed a film adaptation of “The Color of Money” (though changed much of the story), and Paul Newman reprised his role as Fast Eddie Felson. A Martin Scorsese gem, Casino is about the competition between best friends, one a Mafioso and the other a casino executive, for a gambling empire and a fast-living socialite. In dire straits, Gerry pairs up with the charismatic Curtis on a road trip across the American South to win back what they have lost in their poker gambling in Mississippi Grind.
“Casino Royale” tells the story of Bond gaining his 007 status, earning his license to kill, and of his romance with Vesper Lynd. Also in the mix is one of the franchise’s finest villains in Le Chiffre, who is played by Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen. Not only does Louis Cropa run a successful restaurant alongside his star chef son, but he also handles part-time bookmaker duties on the side.
This is pretty much a gambling epic, like a sprawling western directed by Sergio Leone or Howard Hawks with Robert De Niro playing the gunslinging head of the titular location in Casino (1995). And in this case, the epic was directed by Martin Scorsese in one of his most ambitious films to-date. With seven wins at the Academy Awards out of ten total nominations, The Sting (1973) is perhaps the most acclaimed film of the entire list. It also holds a 92% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and has been selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the National Film Registry. And one could argue that the bulk of its admiration from fans and critics alike stemmed from the chemistry of its cast. As one of the more well-known entries of the James Bond film franchise, Casino Royale (2006) stands out much as the most action-packed project ever made about gambling.
Little Knife’s hustling mindset kicks in once he discovers Ko Chun’s supernatural abilities, and he puts them to use as the pair dive back into high-stakes gambling. Jessica Chastain gives a phenomenal performance in the lead role, and both Idris Elba and Kevin Costner shine in supporting roles. The drama surrounding the world of gambling can suck you in with its tales of big wins, devastating losses and criminal masterminds.
In Rounders, Matt Damon stars as a card-player-turned-law-student who’s trying to put his poker days behind him, but that proves almost impossible when Worm tornadoes back into his life. Happening in the stylish 1930s setting during the Great Depression, the plot is about two con artists seeking revenge for the murder of their mutual friend. One of the best things about “The Sting” is the viewers guessing until the final plot twist.