Gambling is the perfect theme for a movie. If you have a passion for gambling, click here to play baccarat online.
Thanks to the inherent high stakes of gambling, films that focus on this topic tend to be packed with drama and suspense. Gambling movies also tend to be low-budget but popular. Many of the films on this list of must-watch films have won numerous awards and received critical acclaim.
If you are looking for some low-risk movies, here are the best movies about gambling that you’re sure to adore.
- The Card Counter
If you love crime dramas, then you will adore The Card Counter. Starring Oscar Isaac, this movie tells the tale of a professional gambler known as William Tell. Tell just wants to play cards, but he is continuously haunted by his traumatic past.
Isaac’s performance is perhaps the main attraction of this film, as he gives the character the gravitas he deserves. Paired with Paul Schrader’s gritty direction, The Card Counter is a powerful film that will have viewers asking deep questions.
Alongside Oscar Isaac, this revenge thriller film features Tiffany Haddish, Willem Dafoe, and Tye Sheridan.
- Ocean’s Eleven
Ocean’s Eleven is a slick heist film set in a casino. This 2001 movie is a remake of the 1960 film and launches an entire franchise called the Ocean’s trilogy.
Newly released from prison, Danny Ocean (George Clooney) recruits his close friend Rusty Ryan (Brad Pitt) for an important heist. Namely, Ocean wants help so that he can steal money from his ex-wife (Julia Roberts) and her new lover (Andy García), a casino owner.
This thrilling film also stars Matt Damon, Casey Affleck, Don Cheadle, and Elliot Gould.
- Rain Man
Rain Man is a classic film for good reason. It centers around the heartwarming relationship between two brothers. The selfish Charlie Babbitt (played by Tom Cruise) learns that his father has died and left his fortune to another son. Named Raymond (Dustin Hoffman), his brother suffers from savant syndrome.
Though Charlie is initially upset and plans on using Raymond for his gambling skills, the two brothers soon form a solid relationship.
This comedy-drama was a major commercial success and won four Academy Awards, making Rain Man a must-see film for gambling fans.
- The Gambler
Featuring Mark Wahlberg, The Gambler is a marvelous gambling movie from 2014. Wahlberg portrays Jim Bennett, a professor with a self-destructive passion for gambling. After participating in numerous high-stake games, Jim finds himself in massive debt. Will Jim be able to repay what he owes?
The cast is completed by Brie Larson, Michael K. Williams, Andre Braugher, Jessica Lange, and John Goodman. It’s worth noting that this is a remake of the 1974 movie of the same name, which is a similarly wonderful watch.
- Casino
From legendary director Martin Scorsese, Casino is an enthralling film based on a book entitled Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas.
Casino tells the story of Sam Rothstein, a gambling handicap who is asked to oversee the running of a casino. This cautionary tale of greed and power documents Sam’s running of the casino and the eventual mafia involvement. As Sam progresses to the brink of a breakdown, his relationships begin to fall apart.
The cast includes Robert De Niro, Kevin Pollak, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone.
- Uncut Gems
Up next, Uncut Gems is the perfect film for crime thriller fanatics. Uncut Gems is equal parts comedic and heartbreaking. It also makes a welcome return from Adam Sandler, who has shied away from dramatic films in recent years.
The movie focuses on Howard Ratner, portrayed by Sandler. Ratner is a dynamic jeweler with a gambling addiction. Fighting to repay his gambling debts, Ratner places a high-risk bet that could cause him to lose everything.
- The Hangover
If you’re searching for a comedic movie about gambling, you will have tons of fun watching The Hangover. This hilarious film from the mind of Todd Phillips is the first film in a beloved trilogy.
The film follows a group of friends, who embark on a journey to Los Angeles for a memorable bachelor party. Yet, the group soon gets into various misadventures, causing them to forget what happened the night before.
The movie stars Ed Helms, Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis, and Ken Jeong.
- The Cincinnati Kid
If you respect vintage films, The Cincinnati Kid is the perfect choice for you. Set during the 1930s, this drama film is directed by Norman Jewison.
Steve McQueen depicts Eric Stoner, a young gambler who has been dubbed “The Kid”. To create a good reputation, Eric challenges several experienced gamblers. This includes Lancey “The Man” Howard (Edward G. Robinson), who many consider to be the best player in the world.
The movie builds up to the climactic poker game between these two characters.
- Mississippi Grind
Mississippi Grind is a comedy-drama with an immaculate retro vibe. Featuring the hysterical Ryan Reynolds, the movie focuses on a road trip shared by two passionate gamblers.
Reynolds plays Curtis, a young gambler who meets a more experienced player named Gerry. The two gamblers soon become friends and pursue a trip to regain what they have lost.
This film contains plenty of recognizable faces alongside Reynolds, such as Ben Mendelsohn, Alfre Woodard, and Sienna Miller.
- Molly’s Game
Last but not least, Molly’s Game is a 2017 film with a star-studded cast, including Jessica Chastain, Jeremy Strong, Idris Elba, Michael Cera, and Joe Keery. The movie is based on the real-life of Molly Bloom.
In the movie, Chastain portrays Molly Bloom, a mogul who soon develops a passion for poker. Chastain earned an Academy Award nomination for this phenomenal performance.
Bloom soon starts an underground poker game, which soon attracts celebrities. However, she becomes the center of an FBI investigation and finds herself threatened by the mafia.
Final Thoughts
If you are searching for the perfect recommendation for a movie night, these films about gambling are bound to provide an intense viewing experience. Packed with drama and typically set in Las Vegas, these movies are sure to keep you entertained.
