The allure of high stakes, the rush of adrenaline, and the suspense of uncertain outcomes make gambling thrillers a unique genre. This collection showcases films where characters are drawn into the world of casinos, poker games, and high-risk bets, often leading to intense psychological battles and unexpected twists. Whether you're a fan of the genre or new to it, these films offer a thrilling journey through the highs and lows of gambling.
The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
Description: A young poker player (Steve McQueen) challenges the legendary Lancey Howard (Edward G. Robinson) in a high-stakes game in New Orleans.
Fact: The film was remade in 2004 as "The Card Player."
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Hard Eight (1996)
Description: A seasoned gambler (Philip Baker Hall) takes a young man (John C. Reilly) under his wing, teaching him the ins and outs of gambling, but with a twist.
Fact: This was Paul Thomas Anderson's directorial debut.
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Rounders (1998)
Description: This film delves into the underground world of high-stakes poker, where a law student (Matt Damon) returns to gambling to help his friend pay off a debt.
Fact: Edward Norton's character was inspired by real-life poker player Mike McDermott.
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Croupier (1998)
Description: Clive Owen stars as a struggling writer who takes a job as a croupier in a London casino, leading him into a world of crime and temptation.
Fact: The film was shot in real casinos, giving it an authentic feel.
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The Cooler (2003)
Description: A casino "cooler" (William H. Macy) whose presence dampens the luck of gamblers falls in love, changing his luck and the casino's fortunes.
Fact: The film won the Special Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.
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Casino Royale (2006)
Description: James Bond (Daniel Craig) must defeat a private banker funding terrorists in a high-stakes poker game at Casino Royale in Montenegro.
Fact: This film rebooted the James Bond series, starting with Bond at the beginning of his career.
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21 (2008)
Description: Based on the true story of the MIT Blackjack Team, this film follows a group of students who use card counting to win millions in Las Vegas.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book "Bringing Down the House" by Ben Mezrich.
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The Card Counter (2021)
Description: A former military interrogator turned gambler (Oscar Isaac) uses his skills at the poker table to right the wrongs of his past.
Fact: The film was written and directed by Paul Schrader, known for "Taxi Driver."
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The Gambler (2014)
Description: A remake of the 1974 film, this version stars Mark Wahlberg as a literature professor with a gambling addiction, leading him into a dangerous spiral of debt and desperation.
Fact: The film was directed by Rupert Wyatt, known for "Rise of the Planet of the Apes."
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Molly's Game (2017)
Description: Based on the true story of Molly Bloom, a former Olympic skier who ran the world's most exclusive high-stakes poker game.
Fact: Aaron Sorkin, known for "The West Wing," wrote and directed this film.
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