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Craving some entertainment during these unprecedented times? Why not indulge in some of the finest gambling-themed films ever made! Here's a list showing you the top 10 must-watch movies to get you started.
For those procrastinators, who'd rather skip movies and opt for a good book, or an audiobook, we've got you covered too!
Some people unwind and relax after a long day by quietly watching a movie; others might prefer the noise and excitement of a movie or TV show. This compendium caters to both preferences.
Without further ado, let us delve into our pick of the best gambling movies ever produced!
Honorable Mentions
In compiling this list, our primary goal was to shed light on lesser-known gambling movies that some enthusiasts might not have encountered yet. With this goal in mind, titles like Rounders and Maverick, combining Matt Damon, Edward Norton, John Malkovich, Mel Gibson, Judie Foster, and James Garner, were not included.
Naturally, other great gambling movies, such as Casino Royale featuring Daniel Craig and a heart-stopping "bad beat" in Texas Hold'em, were left out. Also, All In The Poker Movie, High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story, and Runner, Runner, a film based on real-life events, were not mentioned.
Our Top Gambling Movies
Here is the list of the greatest gambling movies you should not miss, in no particular order. The movies either showcase gambling scenes or focus entirely on the subject.
1. 21
Known for its enticing acting performances and a connection to reality, 21 is a remarkable movie about an MIT math professor. He brings together five students to leverage their mathematical genius and win millions at the blackjack tables in Las Vegas.
2. The Cooler
One term many poker players are familiar with is "the cooler," and this movie encapsulates the essence of it. The story revolves around William H. Macy as "The Cooler," who walks around the casino ending winning streaks – essentially bringing bad luck upon his victims.
3. Ocean's Eleven
Steven Soderbergh's masterpiece stars George Clooney, Matt Damon, Casey Affleck, Brad Pitt, Bernie Mac, Don Cheadle, and Julia Roberts in a star-studded show exploring the world of high-stakes casino robberies.
4. Mississippi Grind
A powerful movie about gambling addiction, depression, and regret, Mississippi Grind offers excellent acting and a well-written script.
5. Uncut Gems
Adam Sandler takes on a challenging role in this thrilling drama about a diamond dealer with a gambling addiction and crippling debt.
6. California Split
This comedy-drama offers an engrossing peek into the life of gamblers, with George Segal and Elliott Gould portraying the two main characters.
7. The Gambler
A 1974 classic, The Gambler features James Caan in the story of a gambler battling debt and seeking one big score to escape his problems.
8. Hard Eight
A unique entry in our list, Hard Eight focuses on dice games rather than card games. John C. Reilly, Samuel L. Jackson, and Gwyneth Paltrow lead the cast in this captivating look at the world of professional gamblers.
9. Tricheurs
Tricheurs, a Portuguese film, doesn't shy away from depicting the darker aspects of gambling addiction, providing an illuminating view into the lives of compulsive gamblers.
10. The Cincinnati Kid
A 1965 film masterpiece starring Steve McQueen, The Cincinnati Kid follows a young poker player on his quest to make a name for himself in the poker world.
That wraps up our selection of the best gambling movies ever made. Did our picks match your favorites? If not, share with us your preferred gambling movies – from casino games, poker, sports betting, and more! Don't forget to look up our Telegram community to share your thoughts, ask questions, and entertain lively discussions about gambling and poker!
- Interestingly, Judie Foster is notably absent from the list of actors featured in some well-known gambling films, such as Rounders, Maverick, Casino Royale, All In The Poker Movie, High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story, and Runner, Runner.
- While 21, The Cooler, Ocean's Eleven, Mississippi Grind, Uncut Gems, California Split, The Gambler, Hard Eight, Tricheurs, and The Cincinnati Kid are highly recommended gambling movies, they mainly focus on card games like poker and blackjack, or dice games. For gambling-themed films revolving around sports betting, one might have to look elsewhere.
- As the list of top gambling movies concludes, it's interesting to note that movies and TV shows often serve as a valuable form of entertainment for those looking to unwind after a long day, including poker enthusiasts or those simply seeking excitement.
- With the recent rise in popularity of streaming services and online platforms offering reviews on various forms of entertainment, one can now discover lesser-known gambling-themed films or follow lists of the top must-watch movies in various categories. This makes it easy for individuals to find fresh content that suits their preferences, be it poker, sports betting, or movies and TV shows catering to a wide array of interests within the entertainment industry.
