The title character, the Cincinnati Kid (Steve McQueen), is a young poker player who wants to be the best in the world. He comes from a poor background and has had to hustle to make a living. The film is based on a true story of the MIT blackjack team, a group of college students who win millions of dollars from Las Vegas casinos by using their math skills and a card counting system. Adam Sandler is known for starring in some…well, questionable comedies. But his role in Uncut Gems reminded everyone that he’s a force to be reckoned with when he’s given incredible material to work with. Adam takes on the role of a lovable NYC jeweler who loves playing it big when it comes to betting.
Top 5 Gambling Movies You Must Watch
Unable to hold his alcohol, Eddie loses everything and hits rock bottom. After confiding in Sarah, a tortured alcoholic, Eddie picks himself together to try to beat Fats once and for all. In the film, the gambler’s spirit is rendered viscerally by Newman, who paints a complex picture of an imperfect masculine ego, flawed by the same instincts that leave him raw and relatable. Nominated for nine Academy Awards, the film has enjoyed a fine legacy, aging gracefully due to its naturalistic performances, sleek cinematography and its unidealized atmosphere.
- A study on how to beat the system, “21” might just inspire you to try.
- This movie is based on the true story of Molly Bloom, a former professional skier who became one of the most successful poker players in the world.
- But he is about to spend it again when he has a medical emergency and is rushed to a hospital.
- High Roller is a biopic that follows Ungar’s life, from his childhood, to his WSOP days, to his addiction and downfall, to his final comeback, and everything in between.
- If you’ve not read the book by Ben Mezrich then this US made-for-TV dramatised documentary will be a fascinating watch.
- Through her charismatic personality, she attracts higher caliber players and eventually starts running her own games, which gained her a lot of money.
- Our expert Jacek Michalski takes us through the eleven movies with realistic casino scenes.
Letterboxd — Your life in film
For anyone who’s into movies or casinos, this list is a solid gold find. In its essence, Army of the Dead is a classic heist movie; a billionaire seeks to retrieve $200 million locked in a casino vault in Las Vegas, which is inhabited by zombies. He enlists mercenary Scott Ward, played by Dave Bautista, and his team to get back the money before the city is completely destroyed. For blackjack fans, the classing gambling movie 21 should be right up your alley. 21 is based on the story of the MIT Blackjack Team, a group of students from top US universities, including MIT, who learned how to count cards in blackjack and attempted to take over casinos in Las Vegas.
#3: “The Sting” (
Yuppie Charlie (Tom Cruise) and his autistic brother Ray (Dustin Hoffman) in Rain Man is at the very heart of this ‘buddy film’ with a gambling twist. Set in the heart of Las Vegas, the film portrays the rise and fall of a casino empire, unraveling the darker realities behind the glittering façade. It’s a whirlwind journey that navigates the dazzling highs and devastating lows of the casino and mobster world, making it one of the best casino-related movies of all time. Just like many other good casino movies, Croupier emphasizes the psychological toll of juggling luck, chance, and avarice. The simple definition of a croupier is an individual who’s in charge of running a gaming table.
Bullsh*t The Gameshow
- The title refers to the scams (“stings”) used by the grifters to con their mark.
- 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.
- She hosted one of the most exclusive underground poker games for the wealthy and powerful, including members of the Mafia, politicians, and celebrities.
- Based on a book by Nicholas Pileggi, “Casino” offers a thrilling crime drama that’s sure to draw you in.
- The Card Counter is less about cards and more about grief, trauma and faith, and it delivers those themes through the dark dazzling eyes of Oscar Isaac.
Molly’s Game is based on the true story of Molly Bloom, a world-renowned Olympic-class skier. Molly’s athletic career is certainly noteworthy, but her side gig garnered even more interest once it was made public. Molly just so happened to be running an exclusive poker game ring for an entire decade that welcomed celebrities, business tycoons, and even mobsters. After being arrested during a massive FBI sting, Molly comes into contact with a criminal defense lawyer and relays more of her enthralling life story to the viewing audience. 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.
Kenny Rogers as The Gambler: The Adventure Continues
Should you end up enchanted with the game of poker through the movie, make sure to check out our expert selection of 1 euro online casinos where you can indulge in your favourite game by depositing as little as 1 euro. Apart from Netflix’s large collection of gambling-themed movies, there are plenty of other excellent gambling films. Some have even been on Netflix before and may return at some point, while others are still waiting to make their Netflix debut. Bugsy tells the story of Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel, played by Warren Beatty.
MOLLY’S GAME (
- Rounders tends to stay closer to realistic poker gameplay, but it also embellishes the ability of the protagonist to read opponents and make flawless decisions under pressure.
- “The Cooler” elegantly intertwines themes of love, morality, and luck, enabling viewers to explore the inner workings and ethical dilemmas faced by those who populate and perpetuate the gambling world.
- The movie features Tom Cruise and his brother Dustin Hoffman who try to rebuild their relationship after the death of their father.
- Gerry and Curtis, while united by their love for gambling, each bring their own layered emotional and psychological baggage to the trip, adding depth and nuance to their characters and the storyline.
- He is joined by Gondorf, who has his own reasons for seeking Lonnegan.
- Anderson’s debut-length Hard Eight (1996; originally called Sydney) is a whole another story; it focuses greatly, not rushing at all, on its four protagonists.
It’s really a tale of the two main characters and their attempts to get revenge on a slightly cartoon-like villain but it’s a hugely entertaining ride and the old-school horse racing world has a wonderfully nostalgic feel to it. From the bright lights of Las Vegas to hidden gambling spots, these movies invite you to explore the fascinating betting games. In any event, Eddie Garrett, a gambling addict, is tasked to stash the money for an acquaintance – if that’s what you can call a local thug who is rummaging through your kitchen one morning – who is heading into prison. Now, Garrett has no idea that he will be safekeeping a bag of money, but upon discovery, his gambling addiction kicks in. He smiles to himself, sweats profusely, and decides that fortune has truly smiled upon him. Jealousy takes over but Jabami has a presence of character that helps her overcome the pettiness of schoolmates and continually excel at gambling.
The Cincinnati Kid (
If you’re looking for a fun, fast-paced movie with a bit of gambling thrown in, Rounders is definitely worth checking out. “Casino,” directed by Martin Scorsese and widely regarded as one of the best casino movies ever made, tells the story of the early days of the Las Vegas casino industry. It’s important to note, however, that while the film is set in Las Vegas, it doesn’t focus on the first Vegas casino. Paul Thomas Anderson’s movie “Hard Eight” follows the story of a seasoned gambler who takes a young man under his wing, introducing him to the casino scene. The mentorship slowly evolves into a complex relationship as they navigate the unpredictable world of gambling.
Rounders ( – The Underworld of Poker
As the British secret services seem to be out of their depth, they cannot outright go and arrest Le Chiffre, but what they can do is get close, play with the man’s hand, and beat him at a game of poker. Of course, there is no better-qualified agent to embark on this task than 007 himself. Our selection of Netflix gaming movies includes action, drama, thriller, and documentaries, along with a few international picks that will make for a great watch no matter what your preferred genre is. With this said, let’s plunge right into our Netflix must-watch https://true-fortune.us/mobile/ list.
The Cincinnatti Kid
This criminally underrated movie shows the intense highs and lows of the gambler’s mind, with the audience having a front-row seat. Acting as a realistic portrayal of gambling addiction, Ben Mendelsohn’s performance as Gerry shows the misery and recklessness that comes with his type of dependency. From the glamour of Las Vegas to the realities of gambling addiction, these films offer a true journey into the world of gambling.
The plots of many of the best films about gambling are remarkably similar. It’s not uncommon for these films to focus on a single genre and be made on a… This category is for films about gambling, or in which gambling is important to the plot. The movie was written and directed by Paul Schrader, the man who wrote iconic screenplays like Taxi Driver. Supporting roles from Gwyneth Paltrow, Samuel L. Jackson, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and John C. Reilly brilliantly highlight the range of strange and interesting characters that you can find in any casino. After being taught the gambling ropes, Jack’s attention begins to be diverted by a cocktail waitress.
Some had to rewatch their most favorite film about casinos, such as poker movies. All too often women in gambling movies are limited to love interests, or that classic cliché – a prostitute with a heart of gold. Apart from a love of literature, Freed also has a debilitating gambling addiction.
Molly’s Game
The film is an exciting ride through the highs and lows of living a double life; one as studious college students and the other as high rollers. The drama surrounding the world of gambling can suck you in with its tales of big wins, devastating losses and criminal masterminds. Digital Celluloid, a comic strip by artist Chris Cirillo, pokes fun at the films of today, tomorrow and yesterday.
Guillermo del Toro’s ‘Frankenstein’ movie for Netflix has wrapped filming
Mahowny, despite his seemingly successful professional life as a bank manager, secretly spirals into a catastrophic descent as his gambling addiction overtakes every facet of his existence. The film does not shy away from showcasing the harrowing impact on his mental health, financial stability, and crumbling relationships, rendering a powerful and somber reflection on the often invisible struggles endured by addicts. California Split is the Citizen Kane of gambling movies, and Elliot Gould gives a career-best performance as Charlie Waters, the serial gambling addict who can literally bet on anything. Gould commands the screen with cocaine-fast charisma, while Robert Altman’s casual realism sucks you into every frame, casino, and horse race. The film holds an 83% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and it garnered $450.7 million on an $85 million budget. That’s the greatest gross differential from any gambling movie ever released, and that commercial appeal is in large part due to its star-studded cast.
Win It All (
You can always try to find a copy on DVD, but in the age of streaming services, here’s what you need to know. The film was released the same year Johnny Moss won his last WSOP Main Event (1974). It’s a comedy-drama directed by Robert Altman, and while on its face it may seem lighthearted, California Split cuts much deeper. The movie is based on a book of the same name, written from Bloom’s perspective, so there may be an expected bias toward her side of the story. If you’re wondering how to watch Mississippi Grind, it’s available on DVD and Blu-Ray, and several streaming options exist, including an HBO Max subscription.
- If that all sounds a bit deep then it also features some of the best pool scenes recorded on film, some top quality betting action and an effortlessly cool performance from Paul Newman in the lead role.
- It is based on the true story about the infamous 1919 Chicago White Sox, a World Series team that had eight players intentionally tanking games because bettors paid them off to do so.
- Heist films are the ultimate guilty pleasure, a scheming world of cons and quips with the audience along for the ride as accomplices.
- However, the movie is a helluva ride if you’re willing to go with it.
- Mixon missed a second game Sunday and Pierce was out for a third straight week.
When he comes across a rare, expensive opal that should pay off his debts, the protagonist gets involved in some dicey deals. The top casino movies range from moody noire films to action-packed heists, so you’re certain to find something you like. Forget the suspense and drama that most gambling movies on Netflix seem to focus so heavily on.
Imagine a scene where a woman in a tight red silk dress confidently walks across the carpeted floor of a Las Vegas casino. She subtly signals a well-dressed gentleman seated at one of the blackjack tables before taking a seat at the next table, smiling at those already there. The game is on; they’re about to outsmart the casino at its own game. Therefore, “Casino” stands not merely as a masterpiece of cinema but as a profound societal commentary that continues to resonate with viewers across generations and cultural contexts. Directed by the masterful Martin Scorsese, “Casino” elucidates the tumultuous, often nefarious world of Las Vegas gambling during the potent era of the 1970s.
The way gambling scenes are shot and edited also plays a crucial role in shaping viewer perception. Cinematic techniques — such as close-ups on tense faces, quick cuts during exciting hands, and the strategic use of music and sound effects — enhance the emotional impact of gambling scenes. While effective for storytelling, these techniques can exaggerate the reality of gambling moments, making them seem more glamorous or fraught with tension than they might actually be. Many argue that movies frequently miss the mark in showing the cognitive distortions and emotional challenges faced by real gamblers.
- It is an exhilarating ride from start to finish and definitely worth watching if you are a fan of gambling movies.
- Bernie, once a passive participant in the perpetuation of gamblers’ despair, becomes a mirror through which the audience might reflect on the broader, systemic moral complexities inherent within the gambling industry.
- Thus, he recruits Curtis on a cross-country road trip to New Orleans to partake in a high-stakes poker game.
- Starring a restrained Oscar Isaac, The Card Counter marries both gambling and action in a film that never seems to take a breath.
- Players and fans were never really impressed; instead, they waited for a film that did the game justice.
- I didn’t do any of my tells.’ To which Maverick replied, ‘You held your breath.
Directed by Robert Altman, “California Split” follows the friendship between two gamblers played by George Segal and Elliott Gould. The film is an insightful exploration of the gambling lifestyle and the different forms it can take. In “Uncut Gems,” Adam Sandler takes on a non-comedic role to embody a character consumed by the thrill of gambling. Sandler portrays a frenzied jewelry store owner whose gambling addiction puts him in a financially difficult situation. “Molly’s Game,” one of the best movies about poker (in our humble opinion), is a compelling journey into the clandestine world of high-stakes poker, showcasing the rush and pitfalls of hosting the world’s most exhilarating casino game.