Gambling has long been a popular theme in movies, with numerous films exploring the high stakes world of casinos, poker tables, and sports betting. From classic casino dramas to modern thrillers, there are countless films that capture the thrill and excitement of gambling. In this article, we will take a look at 15 of the best films about gambling, as selected by the editors at Film Threat.
1. “Casino” (1995) – Directed by Martin Scorsese, “Casino” is a crime drama that follows the rise and fall of a mob-controlled casino in Las Vegas. With a stellar cast including Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci, the film is a thrilling examination of the dark side of the gambling industry.
2. “Rounders” (1998) – Starring Matt Damon and Edward Norton, “Rounders” is a poker drama that follows a reformed gambler as he gets drawn back into the world of high-stakes poker. The film has become a cult classic among poker players and fans of the game.
3. “The Cincinnati Kid” (1965) – Set in the world of underground poker games, “The Cincinnati Kid” stars Steve McQueen as a young poker player trying to prove himself against a veteran card shark played by Edward G. Robinson. The film is a tense and gripping portrayal of the highs and lows of gambling.
4. “The Sting” (1973) – While not strictly a gambling film, “The Sting” features a memorable sequence where Paul Newman and Robert Redford run a high-stakes card game scam. The film is a stylish and entertaining caper that has become a classic of the genre.
5. “21” (2008) – Based on the true story of a group of MIT students who use card counting techniques to win big at blackjack, “21” is a fast-paced thriller that is both suspenseful and entertaining. The film stars Jim Sturgess and Kate Bosworth and features a standout performance by Kevin Spacey as the students’ mentor.
6. “Molly’s Game” (2017) – Directed by Aaron Sorkin, “Molly’s Game” is based on the true story of Molly Bloom, a former Olympic skier who runs an exclusive high-stakes poker game for Hollywood celebrities and billionaires. Jessica Chastain delivers a powerhouse performance as Bloom, and the film is a gripping look at the world of underground gambling.
7. “Hard Eight” (1996) – Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, “Hard Eight” follows a veteran gambler played by Philip Baker Hall who takes a young protege under his wing. The film is a nuanced exploration of the relationships that form in the gambling world, and features standout performances by John C. Reilly and Gwyneth Paltrow.
8. “The Gambler” (1974) – James Caan stars in this classic film about a college professor with a gambling addiction. Directed by Karel Reisz, “The Gambler” is a gritty and realistic portrayal of the destructive effects of compulsive gambling.
9. “Owning Mahowny” (2003) – Philip Seymour Hoffman gives a powerhouse performance in this film based on the true story of a bank employee who embezzles millions of dollars to fuel his gambling addiction. Directed by Richard Kwietniowski, “Owning Mahowny” is a tense and gripping drama that delves into the psychology of addiction.
10. “Mississippi Grind” (2015) – Starring Ryan Reynolds and Ben Mendelsohn, “Mississippi Grind” follows two gamblers as they travel down the Mississippi River in search of a big win. Directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, the film is a character-driven study of friendship and addiction.
11. “California Split” (1974) – Directed by Robert Altman, “California Split” follows two friends played by Elliott Gould and George Segal as they navigate the seedy world of underground gambling. The film is a gritty and realistic portrayal of the highs and lows of the gambling lifestyle.
12. “The Cooler” (2003) – William H. Macy stars in this drama about a man who works as a “cooler” in a Las Vegas casino, bringing bad luck to high-rolling gamblers. Directed by Wayne Kramer, “The Cooler” is a dark and atmospheric film that explores the intersection of luck and fate in the gambling world.
13. “High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story” (2003) – Based on the true story of legendary poker player Stu Ungar, “High Roller” stars Michael Imperioli as Ungar and follows his rise and fall in the world of professional poker. Directed by A.W. Vidmer, the film is a riveting portrait of a troubled genius.
14. “Croupier” (1998) – Clive Owen stars in this British film about a struggling writer who takes a job as a casino croupier. Directed by Mike Hodges, “Croupier” is a stylish and atmospheric thriller that explores the blurred lines between reality and fiction in the gambling world.
15. “Casino Royale” (2006) – While not a traditional gambling film, the James Bond classic “Casino Royale” features a memorable high-stakes poker game between Bond and the villain Le Chiffre. Starring Daniel Craig as Bond, the film is a stylish and action-packed entry in the iconic franchise.
These 15 films represent some of the best and most compelling portrayals of the world of gambling on the big screen. Whether you’re a fan of poker, casinos, or high-stakes drama, there is something for everyone in this diverse and exciting collection of movies. Grab some popcorn, place your bets, and enjoy the thrill of these cinematic gems.
