The 75+ Best Movies About Gamblers & Casinos, Ranked

Whether you’re in it to learn how to beat the house or just want to hear the soothing sounds of chips stacking and slots spinning, these are the best gambling movies to put you right in the action. Another film noted for its realism is “Casino” (1995), directed by Martin Scorsese, which offers a gritty and detailed look at the operations of a Las Vegas casino during the 1970s. While the movie does contain some dramatic elements, it’s known for its attention to detail in depicting the inner workings of the casino industry and the challenges faced by those who run it. The comedy story follows a group of friends who travel to Las Vegas for a bachelor party to celebrate their friend’s upcoming wedding and experience a series of outrageous and comedic misadventures.

The Color of Money

Unforgettable gambling films offer electrifying narratives and memorable characters, reflecting the allure and rich complexity of the casino world. These cinematic achievements are just a few examples of the great films that transport viewers into the world of gambling. Steve McQueen is at his most watchable in this classic story of a young gambler, Eric ‘The Kid’ Stoner, a talented young poker player who aspires to be the best. He gets his chance when he is challenged by the legendary poker player Lancey Howard (Edward G. Robinson) to a high-stakes game. Along the way, he falls in love with a lounge singer (Ann-Margret) and has to navigate the dangerous world of gambling and the shady characters that inhabit it. Directed by Norman Jewison, the movie is widely regarded as a classic in the gambling movie genre.

Molly’s Game (

He’s up against Mads Mikkelsen, who plays an international criminal with a questionable tell, risking the funds of the exact sort of people you don’t want to be on the bad side of. There’s nothing the casino can do if someone’s playing hot and winning a lot of money—unless they send in “The Cooler,” anyway. Played with a timid, nervous energy by William H. Macy, “The Cooler” is naturally unlucky, and he works for the casino by jinxing players and spreading his misfortune.

The 75+ Best Movies About Gambling

Tense, entertaining, and carried by incredible performances, Molly’s Game has everything a good crime-drama needs. Like most gamblers, Mike loses more than just his money—but that doesn’t stop him from driving towards the lights of Las Vegas for the World Series of Poker. In 1982, the FBI discovers Piscano’s records, closes the Tangiers, and Green agrees to cooperate. The FBI approaches Sam for help by showing him photos of Nicky and Ginger together, but he turns them down. The Chicago bosses are arrested, get ready for trial, and arrange the murders of anyone who might testify against them. In 1983, Ginger dies of a hot dose in Los Angeles, with Sam suspecting that the bosses may have been responsible.

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While “Let It Ride” received both positive and negative reviews upon its release, it was praised for its comedic approach to the world of gambling and the highs and lows of real-money betting. Set in the glamorous backdrop of the French Riviera, “The Good Thief” follows the story of a retired master thief and gambling addict. It offers a stylish and atmospheric depiction of the criminal underworld, with a blend of crime, drama, and dark humor. The movie is known for the protagonist’s outstanding performance and is a nice representative of the heist genre. The movie which seems to be rated as the worst of the three and combines elements of a heist thriller with clever twists and a stylish presentation. It features elaborate schemes, unexpected alliances, and the charismatic camaraderie between the characters.

Cast & Crew

One of the best things about “The Sting” is the viewers guessing until the final plot twist. The movie received commercial success and won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. This crime drama is set in Las Vegas during the 1970s and 1980s, and it revolves around the operations of the fictional Tangiers Casino. The movie invites the viewer into a complicated world of casino businesses and gamblers, exploring themes of power and corruption, all against the background of the Las Vegas glamor.

Cast

Along the way the pair ingest epic amounts of drugs and come across a cast of bizarre characters. The further they descend into their drug-induced haze, the more surreal and nightmarish their journey becomes. Though not a traditional gambling film, Ocean’s Eleven is a favorite casino movie. In Croupier, which translates to “dealer,” Clive Owen plays a struggling https://thebescasino-login.com/bonus/ novelist who gets a job at the casino. Using the position as research for a new book, he finds himself getting pulled deeper and deeper into gambling-based crime. Whether you want to learn card counting in “21” or explore addiction’s dark side in “Owning Mahowny,” these films showcase the enduring appeal of risk and reward in the casino world.

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As he immerses himself in this world of deceit, Victor begins to question the moral implications of his actions and the consequences they may have on his relationships and future. The movie addresses the themes of ethics and ambition, and despite its age, is known for high-quality performance. The 1961 original is less concerned with a swaggering Tom Cruise–Paul Newman movie-star face-off and more focused on loyalty and integrity and ambition.

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Nicky ends his affair with Ginger once she asks him to kill Sam and threatens to go to the FBI. Casino was released on November 22, 1995, by Universal Pictures, to a mostly positive critical reception, and was a worldwide box office success. Stone’s performance was singled out for acclaim, earning her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama and a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress.

The 50 Best Casino Movies of All Time

Played by Edward Norton, Worm is one of those characters whom you hate to love, as his gambling habits tear Mike’s world down in a matter of days. William Tell (played by Oscar Isaac) lives a sad life, moving from one motel to the next, living out of suitcases and covering all the furniture in bedsheets. Impressive ambition and bravura performances from an outstanding cast help Casino pay off in spite of a familiar narrative that may strike some viewers as a safe bet for director Martin Scorsese. Four men – Doug, Alan, Stu, and Phil – go to Las Vegas for a stag night, awakening the next morning with the worst hangovers of their lives. While they can’t remember anything from the night before, the hangovers will then remember the trip to Las Vegas forever. Casino revolves around Sam “Ace” Rothstein, an ex-gangster managing a great casino in Vegas.

• Despite his responsible position, he secretly develops a severe gambling addiction.
• This crime drama is set in Las Vegas during the 1970s and 1980s, and it revolves around the operations of the fictional Tangiers Casino.
• The movie explores the themes of friendship, gambling and gambling addiction, and generally the complexity of human relationships.
• Although it revolves around the search for a missing groom-to-be, The Hangover still manages to be one of the best casino movies you must see.
• Known mostly for its intricate storytelling, nonlinear narrative structure, and stylized visuals, “Revolver” received mixed reviews upon its release but has since gained a cult following.
• “Croupier” is a neo-noir drama about a struggling writer who takes a job as a croupier (dealer) at a London casino to make ends meet.
• In 1982, the FBI discovers Piscano’s records, closes the Tangiers, and Green agrees to cooperate.
• One of the most famous films in this category is “21” (2008), directed by Robert Luketic and inspired by the true story of the MIT Blackjack Team.
• After being robbed by a sore card loser, Bill Denny (played by George Segal) and Charlie Waters (played by Elliott Gould) bond over their mutual, dangerous love of gambling.

This seedy, ’50s gambling noir was the Hollywood debut for actor Charlton Heston, who would go on to star in Planet of the Apes and The Ten Commandments. In Dark City, he plays an underground casino owner based in Los Angeles who must deal with patrons who won’t pay their dues. “Rain Man” is a drama movie that explores themes of family, love, and acceptance.

• Director Steven Soderbergh takes us through all the intricate planning and execution, then wraps up with a satisfying ending.
• One of the best things about “The Sting” is the viewers guessing until the final plot twist.
• “21” explores themes of greed, ambition, and the challenge of living on the edge.
• Casino follows Sam “Ace” Rothstein (De Niro), a Jewish American gambling expert handicapper who is asked by the Chicago Outfit to oversee the day-to-day casino and hotel operations at the Tangiers Casino in Las Vegas.
• As Jack becomes more and more embroiled in the murky waters of the casino his life starts to come apart at the scene, leading to a conclusion that most viewers will not have seen coming.
• “Hard Eight” is a neo-noir crime drama about an experienced and enigmatic gambler who takes a young man under his wing.
• However, the movie also delves into the darker aspects of Ungar’s life and explores the toll that his gambling addiction takes on his relationships, his health, and his professional success.

• From meticulously planned heists to intense poker showdowns, these films have become a staple of cinematic culture, capturing the essence of ambition, danger, and adrenaline.
• In 1980, Ginger kidnaps little Amy, planning to flee to Europe with her and Lester.
• 21 is based on Ben Mezrich’s 2003 book, Bringing Down The House, about a group of MIT students who used their math skills to try and card count their way to a fortune in Las Vegas.
• Their pranks, pick-ups, games, and misadventures ultimately lead them to a big win in Reno.
• The movie follows Bond as he earns his license to kill and is tasked with taking down a financier of international terrorism in a high-stakes poker game at the Casino Royale in Montenegro.
• As it turns out, gambling and gangsters go hand-in-hand, and for this Scorsese film, it’s the Chicago Outfit that serves as the focal crime unit.
• Who better to take on the classic Hunter S Thompson novel of excess, psychedelic drugs, and a trip to Las Vegas than film-maker Terry Gilliam?

Newman’s Fast Eddie Felson is like a more interesting version of Cruise’s character, and his battle to take down Jackie Gleason’s Minnesota Fats follows a more human, soulful narrative than a typical sports-movie arc. It’s better the less it is about the pool hustling … which is great, but keeps it lower on this list. An odd little comedy about a perpetual loser gambling addict (Richard Dreyfuss) who, for one day, hits on every single bet at the horse races.

Molly’s Game (

“Best Casino Movies to Watch” is a collection of exciting films that take you into the world of casinos. These movies are perfect for anyone who enjoys the thrill of gambling and enjoys watching great stories on screen. “The Hustler” drama delves into themes of ambition and addiction and depicts the world of pool halls with the tense atmosphere of the game. It earned multiple Academy Award nominations and won two Oscars – for Best Art Direction and Best Cinematography. Based on an older movie with the same name, this new variation of “Ocean’s Eleven” became the first in the popular trilogy of heist comedy movies with a charming group of thieves. The movie combines smart comedy, decent suspense, and very enjoyable styles of directing and performance.

• When one of them finds a lost wallet with a winning lottery ticket inside, it sets off a chain of events that leads to unexpected twists and revelations.
• The movie follows Bond as he earns his license to kill and is tasked with taking down a financier of international terrorism in a high-stakes poker game at the Casino Royale in Montenegro.
• Who better to take on the classic Hunter S Thompson novel of excess, psychedelic drugs, and a trip to Las Vegas than film-maker Terry Gilliam?
• This is a classic American film noir crime drama about a cynical gambler who becomes involved with a corrupt casino owner and then meets a woman and falls in love with her.
• From meticulously planned heists to intense poker showdowns, these films have become a staple of cinematic culture, capturing the essence of ambition, danger, and adrenaline.
• Her addiction not only jeopardizes her marriage but also puts her in dangerous situations.
• As it turns out, gambling and gangsters go hand-in-hand, and for this Scorsese film, it’s the Chicago Outfit that serves as the focal crime unit.

Inspired by true events, 21 tells the story of a group of MIT students who use their math skills to count cards and win millions at blackjack tables in Las Vegas. Led by their professor (Kevin Spacey), the group devises an intricate system to outsmart casinos. The film balances the allure of easy money with the moral complexities of bending the rules.

The movie combines elements of a character study, a gripping thriller, and a contemplation on the nature of obsession. Known for its atmospheric and introspective storytelling, “The Card Counter” offers a slow-burning and thought-provoking narrative that examines the destructive power of vengeance. The plot explores the main protagonist’s self-destructive behavior, his complex relationships with his students and family, and his desperate attempts to find a way out of his predicament. “The Gambler” is full of gambling scenes and delves into themes of addiction, obsession, and the consequences of one’s choices, providing an intense portrayal of the protagonist’s downward spiral. Aaron Sorkin’s directorial debut tells the true story of Molly Bloom, the Queen of Hollywood’s underground poker empire.

Everything about the Safdie brothers’ crime-thriller is high-wire and frenzied, just like its haphazard protagonist. And, of course, being a Safdie movie, it was produced by A24, so expect a lot of visceral neon lights that illuminate its dark themes. Robert Altman exposes the grim underbelly of the Vegas scene, where cocaine, violence, and prostitution tangle with roulette tables and betting booths to destroy lives. The “color of money” just to happens to match the hue of a pool table, devouring the duo into a blinding world of green. Rupert Wyatt’s 2014 remake of The Gambler received indifferent reviews because it pales in comparison to the taut 1974 classic. Karel Reisz directed the original movie, in which James Caan’s strong central performance was nominated for a Golden Globe.

Released in 2006, Casino Royale was Daniel Craig’s first appearance as Bond and arguably his best. The movie follows Bond as he earns his license to kill and is tasked with taking down a financier of international terrorism in a high-stakes poker game at the Casino Royale in Montenegro. Along the way, he falls in love with Vesper Lynd (Eva Green), a treasury agent who is sent to provide the money for the game. Directed by Martin Campbell, the movie is known for its intense action sequences and stunning cinematography. In the book, a game of baccarat between Bond and Le Chiffre sorts the boys out from the men, while in the film, Texas Hold’em is the game with license to thrill. The drama story revolves around a talented poker player and law student pulled into the underground poker world.

Wahlberg’s performance captures the self-destructive nature of gambling, making this film a gritty and intense exploration of the darker side of the betting world. Gambling and casinos have always been closely tied to the allure of luxury and risk, especially in iconic destinations like Las Vegas and Monte Carlo. The opulent world of land-based casinos has inspired filmmakers to create unforgettable movies that delve into the high-stakes drama of the gambling world. From meticulously planned heists to intense poker showdowns, these films have become a staple of cinematic culture, capturing the essence of ambition, danger, and adrenaline. “Casino Royale” is an action James Bond spy movie inspired by the old version released many years earlier.

And, of course, there’s a whole lot of gambling, which Altman films with casual mastery, letting us eavesdrop on the weird characters and dangerous oddballs who populate that world. California Split remains perhaps the director’s most underrated classic — and its gut-punch ending is so muted, yet so perfect. The Gambler tells a powerful story about the ferociousness of addiction as well as alienation and all the temptations a person can be overwhelmed with when facing very high stakes. Both James Caan and Mark Wahlberg in the 2014 remake managed to breathe life into one of the most famous gamblers in movies.

Ably directed by Steven Soderbergh, this fast-paced heist film follows the story of Danny Ocean (Clooney), a recently paroled ex-convict who plans to rob three Las Vegas casinos at the same time. To do this, he assembles a team of eleven skilled criminals, each with their own expertise, including Rusty Ryan (Brad Pitt), Linus Caldwell (Matt Damon), and Frank Catton (Bernie Mac). Their plan involves complex and elaborate schemes to bypass the casinos’ high-tech security systems, and they must overcome obstacles and setbacks along the way. Barry Levinson’s remarkable film about the Babbitt brothers won five Academy Awards when it was released in 1988, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor.

Based on the true story of six talented MIT students with gifts for doing math, 21 is one of the best and most famous casino movies of all time. Gerry is a talented Texas hold ’em player whose adventures start once he encounters Curtis during a poker game in Iowa. The two instantly become friends and come up with an idea to try their luck in all the major cities along the Mississippi River. They will play until they win a high-stakes poker game at a casino in New Orleans. If you are looking for an action-packed film that combines the glamorous worlds of gambling, espionage, and secret agents, Casino Royale is the safest bet.

Roll the dice and hit play on these cinematic gems, where fortune and fate collide on the casino floor. ” (2020) with the lovable characters being offered $2.5 million for a single game of Texas Hold’em, which takes them to multiple locations by various means of travel to play the card turns- with absurd hilarity ensuing. The movie is delightful both for the fans of the first movie and for the new audiences due to its engaging events and charming characters. “The Cooler” is a romantic drama that tells about an unlucky man who works as a “cooler” in a Las Vegas casino. His fortunes take an unexpected turn when he meets and falls in love with a cocktail waitress and his luck begins to change.

Today, however, the gambling experience is no longer confined to physical casinos. Thanks to the rise of online casinos, anyone can enjoy the thrill of gambling from the comfort of their own home. You can access a wide variety of games and claim bonuses directly from a smartphone or computer. The debut film by Paul Thomas Anderson, Hard Eight starts off as a free-wheeling film about a casino pro (Philip Baker Hall) and his new protege (John C. Reilly), who start winning big at the casino. Everything changes when the young craps player falls in love with Clementine (Gwyneth Paltrow), forcing him to break some of his mentor’s rules to disastrous effects. In Daniel Craig’s debut as a young James Bond, Casino Royale features 007 playing in a high-stakes Texas hold ’em poker tournament.

And no, the list doesn’t end there, which is why we decided to share some of the all-time top-rated films with casino themes. The Sting is another multi-Academy Award winning film (bagging seven Oscars in total) that follows the story of two professional grifters, Johnny Hooker (Robert Redford) and Henry Gondorff (Paul Newman). The pair concoct an elaborate scheme to avenge the murder of their mutual friend by a powerful gangster. Their convoluted plan involves creating a fake horse racing betting parlour in order to swindle the mob boss, with twists and turns aplenty along the way. Directed by Martin Scorsese, who’s rumored to be working on a biographical film about the punk band The Ramones, Casino is a gripping exploration of the rise and fall of a Las Vegas gambling empire.

Part of the fun lies in trying to figure out if Segal hit it big or lost thousands, because his worrying expression never changes. As part of your account, you’ll receive occasional updates and offers from New York, which you can opt out of anytime. The Ocean’s Eleven team is made up of con men, mechanics, surveillance experts, pickpockets, and even an acrobat.

This fun, gentle comedy focuses mainly on themes like integrity, giving back, and the importance of family. “Revolver” incorporates elements of crime, psychological drama, and neo-noir, focusing on themes such as ego, self-discovery, and the power of the mind. Known mostly for its intricate storytelling, nonlinear narrative structure, and stylized visuals, “Revolver” received mixed reviews upon its release but has since gained a cult following. “The Card Counter” delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and the consequences of choices. It explores the psychological toll of past trauma and the search for purpose and justice.

These two films are often considered among the most realistic casino movies, primarily because they take the time to accurately portray the intricacies of the gambling world and the casino business. Happening in the stylish 1930s setting during the Great Depression, the plot is about two con artists seeking revenge for the murder of their mutual friend. The movie artistically combines the elements of comedy, drama, and crime genres.

One of the most realistic casino movies often cited by critics and audiences is “Rounders” (1998), directed by John Dahl and starring Matt Damon and Edward Norton. “Rounders” is often praised for its authentic portrayal of the underground poker scene and the dynamics of high-stakes poker games. The film details various poker strategies, terminology, and the ups and downs of professional poker players. “Molly’s Game” is a biographical crime drama based on the memoir of the same name by Molly Bloom. The film tells the true story of Molly Bloom, a former Olympic-class skier who becomes involved in hosting high-stakes poker games for wealthy and influential players. The main themes of this movie are power, greed, and the conflict between legality and morality.

Mississippi Grind probably slipped under your radar, but all critics can agree it’s a hidden gem. Gambling can be an intense, life-destroying addiction that’s as far from funny as it gets. Mississippi Grind, however, features Ryan Reynolds—so, obviously, it’s going to have laughs.