Top 10 Western Gambling Films

Description: Set in the Depression-era New Orleans, this film centers on a young poker player challenging the legendary "The Man" in a high-stakes game, capturing the essence of gambling's allure and danger.

Fact: The film was originally set to be a Western but was changed to a contemporary setting. Steve McQueen, who plays the lead, was an avid poker player in real life.

Description: This film, while not set in the West, captures the essence of gambling and con artistry, themes often associated with Westerns, through its elaborate plot involving a big con.

Fact: The film's score by Marvin Hamlisch won three Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year.

Description: This film follows the adventures of Bret Maverick, a charming gambler who aims to enter a high-stakes poker game. The movie blends comedy with Western elements, showcasing the gambling culture of the era.

Fact: Mel Gibson was originally considered for the role of Maverick. The film includes a memorable poker game with James Garner, who played Maverick in the original TV series.

Description: While primarily known for its historical significance in cinema, this short film includes scenes of gambling in a saloon, setting a precedent for Western gambling themes.

Fact: It was one of the first films to use narrative storytelling and was considered scandalous for its time due to its depiction of crime.

Description: This film follows a gambler's journey to clear his family's name, combining elements of adventure, romance, and gambling in a classic Western setting.

Fact: It was one of the many Westerns produced by Columbia Pictures during the 1950s.

Description: A lesser-known Western where a gambler becomes a sheriff to clean up a town, showcasing the intersection of gambling and law enforcement in the Old West.

Fact: The film was part of a wave of low-budget Westerns produced in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

Description: Although not a traditional Western, this film explores the life of a compulsive gambler, reflecting the spirit of risk-taking and the gambler's lifestyle prevalent in the Wild West.

Fact: The film was remade in 2014 with Mark Wahlberg, but the original captures the raw intensity of gambling addiction.

Description: Continuing the saga of Brady Hawkes, this film explores more of his gambling exploits and the challenges he faces in the Wild West.

Fact: It was part of a series of TV movies that followed the success of the original "The Gambler" film.

Description: A TV movie where Kenny Rogers reprises his role as Brady Hawkes, gathering famous Western characters for a high-stakes poker game.

Fact: This film features cameos from several Western TV stars, including Hugh O'Brian and Gene Barry.

Description: The final installment of the series where Brady Hawkes faces his toughest challenge yet, involving a high-stakes poker game with his life on the line.

Fact: This film concludes the saga of Brady Hawkes, with Kenny Rogers playing the character for the last time.