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Craving for some excitement during these trying times? Look no further than these thrilling gambling movies to keep you entertained. Here's CoinPoker's top picks to unwind, wind down, or just while away the hours.
If movies aren't your thing, try diving into a good book or audiobook instead. For those who prefer watching a film after a long day, streaming a gambling movie is the perfect way to relax.
So, grab some popcorn, sit back, and brace yourself for a rollercoaster ride with these exhilarating top 10 gambling movies of all time.
Gems Hidden from the Spotlight
To offer unique suggestions, we've chosen movies you might not have heard of yet. These films will not only keep you entertained but also give you a fresh perspective.
Of course, there are other excellent gambling movies that should've made our list, such as Rounders with Matt Damon, Edward Norton, and John Malkovich. Or Maverick with Mel Gibson, Judie Foster, and James Garner. And of course, who can forget the James Bond franchise, which occasionally delves into world-class gambling, like in Casino Royale where Daniel Craig faced Mads Mikkelsen in an intense game of Texas Hold 'em, featuring one of the most brutal bad beats in poker history.
Other noteworthy gambling movies and documentaries include All In The Poker Movie, High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story, and the more recent Runner, Runner with Justin Timberlake, Ben Affleck, and Gemma Arterton, based on real events.
The Cream of the Crop
Enough chit-chat; let's get down to the top gambling movies of all time, in no particular order. These movies either showcase gambling as a main subject or contain segments featuring gambling.
1. 21
A gripping movie that places a keen focus on the fascinating world of card counting. Based on real events at MIT, the story revolves around five students recruited by a math professor to help win big at Las Vegas blackjack tables. Announced in 2008, 21 boasts a stellar cast led by Kevin Spacey, with Kate Bosworth, Jim Sturgess, and Laurence Fishburne among the ensemble. While critics gave mixed reviews, the movie is still a must-watch for its compelling script and strong performances.
2. The Cooler
A dramatic and suspenseful flick that drills through life's trials and tribulations—or so it seems. William H. Macy, famous for his role in "Shameless," takes on the role of "the cooler," a seemingly cursed individual employed at Shangri-La casino to end winning streaks for patrons. As he begins to lose his "cooling" abilities, it's up to us to find out why.
3. Ocean's Eleven
Call it a modern-day heist classic! Team Brad Pitt, George Clooney, and Matt Damon for this laser-focused tale about a group of skilled individuals planning to rob a casino—not just to win big but for the sheer thrill. With Directing wizardry from Steven Soderbergh and first-rate performances, you know it'll be a fun ride. The movie spawned not one but two sequels and a spin-off, so (let's be honest) there's plenty more where that came from.
4. Mississippi Grind
A poignant endeavor into the tumultuous world of gambling addiction, regret, and the struggle to improve one's fortunes. Featuring Ryan Reynolds, Ben Mendelsohn, and a stacked ensemble cast, Mississippi Grind offers a rare and unflinching glimpse into the darker corners of casino culture.
5. Uncut Gems
Adam Sandler bravely ventures outside of his comedic comfort zone to take on a gritty role as Howard, a desperate gambler with a huge gambling debt. Uncut Gems delivers a suspenseful portrayal of the highs and lows that come with chasing that elusive big score.
6. California Split
George Segal and Elliott Gould team up in this 1974 comedy that explores the fascinating underworld of gambling. After meeting at a poker table, the two bond over their shared passion for gambling, prostitutes, and alcohol. This movie offers a hilarious yet sometimes disturbing look into the world of card sharks.
7. The Gambler
Starring James Caan in the original 1974 film and Mark Wahlberg in the 2014 remake, The Gambler tells the story of a desperate gambler in debt, ready to do whatever it takes—or gamble away whatever he has—to escape financial ruin.
8. Hard Eight
Unlike other entries on this list, Hard Eight focuses on the exciting world of dice instead of cards. Starring John C. Reilly, Samuel L. Jackson, and Gwyneth Paltrow, it follows John, a struggling gambler taken under the wing of a seasoned pro, Sydney. This film highlights the highs and lows of in a unique and compelling manner.
9. Tricheurs
A lesser-known film but worthy of attention nonetheless, Tricheurs is a foreign movie set on a Portuguese island. As it delves into addiction and compulsive behavior, it offers an intriguing look at the darker side of gambling.
10. The Cincinnati Kid
Rounding out our list is the classic Cincinnati Kid, starring the one and only Steve McQueen. Known for his incredible performances in films like Bullitt, McQueen brings his A-game as the young poker player, Eric Stoner, eager to prove himself and make a name for himself in the poker world.
- Judie Foster's performance in Maverick, a gambling movie that also features Mel Gibson, adds an extra layer of entertainment to the film.
- If you're looking for a dramatic depiction of poker, consider watching James Craig's intense game of Texas Hold 'em in Casino Royale, a thrilling gambling movie from the James Bond franchise.
- For those who prefer to read, All In The Poker Movie, High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story, and the more recent Runner, Runner are notable gambling documentaries and movies based on real events.
- In addition to the top 10 gambling movies mentioned, Rounders, with Matt Damon, Edward Norton, and John Malkovich, is another excellent gambling film that deserves a spotlight.
