If you're fascinated by the world of gambling, these documentaries offer a deep dive into the high-stakes, high-drama universe where fortunes can be made or lost in the blink of an eye. From poker tables to casino floors, these films explore the psychology, the strategies, and the sheer adrenaline rush that comes with gambling. Whether you're a seasoned gambler or just curious about the allure, this collection promises to entertain, educate, and perhaps even inspire a bit of caution.

The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Description: Another narrative film based on true events, it showcases the excesses of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who gambled with his clients' money and his own life in pursuit of wealth and pleasure.
Fact: The film was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and Leonardo DiCaprio's performance was widely acclaimed.


The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005)
Description: This film chronicles the rise and fall of Enron, a company whose executives gambled with the futures of thousands of employees and investors. It's a cautionary tale of corporate greed and the gambling nature of high finance.
Fact: The documentary was nominated for an Academy Award and features interviews with key players involved in the Enron scandal.


The Big Short (2015)
Description: Although a narrative film, it's based on real events and documents the financial crisis of 2007-2008, focusing on the individuals who bet against the U.S. housing market. It's a blend of documentary style with dramatic reenactments.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay and features cameos by real-life financial experts explaining complex financial concepts.


The House I Live In (2012)
Description: This documentary explores America's War on Drugs, showing how it has disproportionately affected minority communities. While not directly about gambling, it illustrates the societal gamble of policy decisions and their long-term effects.
Fact: It won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.


Betting on Zero (2016)
Description: This documentary delves into the controversial world of Herbalife, a company accused of being a pyramid scheme, and the battle between billionaire investors Bill Ackman and Carl Icahn over its legitimacy. It's a high-stakes game of financial gambling with real-world consequences.
Fact: The film premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival and has been praised for its in-depth look at the financial and ethical implications of multi-level marketing schemes.


The Corporation (2003)
Description: This documentary explores the concept of the corporation as a legal "person" and how these entities often gamble with the public interest in pursuit of profit.
Fact: It features interviews with numerous experts and has been influential in discussions about corporate ethics and responsibility.


Inside Job (2010)
Description: This documentary investigates the global financial crisis of 2008, showing how the financial system was gambled with by those in power, leading to worldwide economic turmoil.
Fact: It won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and features interviews with key figures in finance and government.


The Flaw (2011)
Description: This film examines the flaws in the American economic system that led to the 2008 financial crisis, highlighting the gambling nature of deregulated markets.
Fact: It was well-received for its clear explanation of complex economic issues and was shown at numerous film festivals.


The Queen of Versailles (2012)
Description: While not strictly about gambling, this documentary follows the Siegel family, owners of Westgate Resorts, as they attempt to build the largest private home in America. Their story is a rollercoaster of wealth, excess, and the gamble of living beyond one's means.
Fact: The film was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance and captures the 2008 financial crisis's impact on the family's extravagant lifestyle.


The World According to Monsanto (2008)
Description: While not directly about gambling, this documentary looks at the corporate gambling with public health and the environment by Monsanto, a company known for its controversial practices.
Fact: The film has been praised for its investigative journalism and has sparked global discussions on corporate responsibility.
