Card games have always been a rich source of tension and drama, making them a perfect setting for thriller films. This collection showcases ten films where the stakes are high, and the outcomes are unpredictable, offering viewers a thrilling ride through the world of high-stakes gambling and psychological warfare.
The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
Description: Set in the Depression-era New Orleans, this film follows a young poker prodigy challenging the reigning champion in a high-stakes game of five-card stud. The tension and psychological battles make it a classic in the genre.
Fact: The film was originally set to be directed by Sam Peckinpah, but he was replaced by Norman Jewison due to creative differences.
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Rounders (1998)
Description: This film dives into the underground world of high-stakes poker, where the protagonist, a law student, must navigate through debts and deceit. It's a quintessential card game thriller that captures the intensity of poker games.
Fact: Matt Damon and Edward Norton both learned to play poker for their roles, and the film has been credited with popularizing Texas Hold 'em.
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Croupier (1998)
Description: Clive Owen stars as a struggling writer who takes a job as a croupier in a casino, where he becomes entangled in a heist. The film uses the casino setting to explore themes of identity and deception.
Fact: This film was a breakout role for Clive Owen, earning him international recognition.
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The Cooler (2003)
Description: William H. Macy plays a "cooler" whose bad luck affects the luck of others at the casino. When he falls in love, his luck changes, leading to unexpected consequences in the gambling world.
Fact: The film was shot entirely in Las Vegas, providing an authentic backdrop for the story.
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Shade (2003)
Description: A group of professional card sharks in Los Angeles get involved in a high-stakes poker game that turns deadly. The film is known for its intricate plot and the portrayal of the gambling underworld.
Fact: The film features a cameo by poker legend Stu Ungar, who plays himself.
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21 (2008)
Description: Inspired by real events, this film follows MIT students who use card counting to win big in Las Vegas. It's a thrilling depiction of the risks and rewards of gambling with a mathematical edge.
Fact: The film is based on the book "Bringing Down the House" by Ben Mezrich, which recounts the true story of the MIT Blackjack Team.
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The Card Counter (2021)
Description: Oscar Isaac plays a former military interrogator turned professional gambler, using his skills to count cards in casinos. The film blends psychological drama with the tension of gambling.
Fact: The film was directed by Paul Schrader, known for his work on "Taxi Driver" and "Raging Bull."
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The Gambler (2014)
Description: Mark Wahlberg stars as a literature professor with a gambling addiction, leading him into a world of high-stakes poker and dangerous loans. The film explores the psychological aspects of gambling addiction.
Fact: The film is a remake of the 1974 film of the same name, which starred James Caan.
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Molly's Game (2017)
Description: Based on the true story of Molly Bloom, who ran the world's most exclusive high-stakes poker game, this film delves into the legal and personal challenges she faced. It's a thrilling tale of ambition and the dark side of gambling.
Fact: Aaron Sorkin, known for his fast-paced dialogue, wrote and directed this film, marking his directorial debut.
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The Grand (2007)
Description: This mockumentary-style film follows a group of eccentric poker players competing in a high-stakes tournament. While comedic, it captures the essence of poker's competitive spirit.
Fact: The film was shot during the World Series of Poker, with real poker players participating in the background.
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