Poker has long been a staple in movies, and this simple yet complex game is full of tension, drama and intrigue, attracting players and non-gamblers alike from the UK’s best new betting site.
High-stakes gambling, a blend of strategy, luck and human psychology, is irresistibly alluring to many directors. This area has been explored so often that only a true die-hard would try to watch every poker-related movie out there, but here we’ve picked out ten of the best.
10. Smart Money (1931)
Smart Money was one of the first movies to focus on poker. It tells the story of Nick the Sweeney, who moves from a small-town poker game to the big city to confront professional gamblers. Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, the film adds a layer of social commentary, depicting poker as a means for ordinary people to challenge the system. While dated by today’s standards, it’s still a great glimpse into the early days of poker in film.
9. Molly’s Game(2017)
Molly’s Game tells the true story of Molly Bloom, an Olympic skier whose career ended abruptly due to injury. Faced with a new direction in life, she turns to organizing high-stakes poker games, eventually leading her into the world of underground gambling. The film is not just a portrayal of playing cards; This is a story about personal resilience and redemption. Bloom’s journey through triumph and setback reflects the unpredictability of the game itself, providing a compelling story about rebuilding life after a major fall.
8. Introducer’s fee (2001)
In “Finder’s Fee,” a group of friends play weekly poker games with lottery tickets as stakes. The discovery of a winning ticket in a lost wallet raises a tense moral dilemma. The film explores how greed corrupts and disintegrates the most intimate of relationships. Despite its relatively low profile and limited reviews, “Finder’s Fee” tells a gripping story about human nature and the consequences of greed, with great performances and a well-crafted script.
7. Poker King(2009)
Set in Macau, “Poker King” revolves around a boy who must prove his maturity by winning poker tournaments in order to inherit his father’s company. Although the plot may seem formulaic, this Hong Kong film offers a fresh perspective on poker, injecting cultural charm and real passion. The film’s serious approach to poker and vivid descriptions of the game’s impact on the characters make for a unique and enjoyable viewing experience.
6. Shanda(2007)
The Grand is a documentary that captures the wild, chaotic spirit of the poker boom. The story follows several eccentric characters as they compete in “The Grand,” a no-limit hold’em tournament with a winner-take-all prize. The film is a hilarious and satirical look at the poker boom era, reflecting the absurdity of the time. It’s a loving tribute to poker’s rise to mainstream popularity, making it a nostalgic piece of nostalgia for poker fans.
5. Luna’s Game(2001)
In “Luna’s Game,” Luna follows in her late father’s footsteps and enters the world of poker, despite the dangers. The film depicts poker as both a passion and a burden, showing how deeply intertwined it is with one’s identity. Luna’s struggle with her love of the game and the personal toll of playing it provides a poignant look at the impact poker can have on an individual’s life.
4. Mississippi Mill (2015)
“Mississippi Grind” tells the story of struggling poker player Gerry and veteran gambler Curtis. Their road trip to New Orleans in hopes of turning their luck around serves as a backdrop to explore themes of friendship and redemption. The film delves into the dynamics of gambling as a profession and as a coping mechanism, highlighting the emotional rollercoaster that often accompanies a gambler’s life. Despite Gerry’s obvious flaws, Curtis’ unwavering support for him highlights the deeper connections that can be formed through shared experiences in the poker world.
3. The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
“The Cincinnati Kid” stars Steve McQueen as a young poker player eager to prove himself in front of the defending champion “The Man.” While its depiction of poker may not be entirely realistic (especially in the (un)famous final hand), the film is known for its intense drama and McQueen’s compelling performance. This climactic poker game offers an unforgettable depiction of the characters’ high stakes and personal ambitions, cementing its status as a poker movie classic.
2. California Secession (1974)
California Split delves into the lives of Bill and Charlie, two gamblers who live a hedonistic lifestyle powered by poker. The film captures the excitement and chaos of professional gambling while also reflecting on the losses it causes. It presents an unflinching look at gambling life, celebrating its thrills while acknowledging its potential pitfalls. The film’s candid portrayal of gambling culture provides valuable insights into the temptations and challenges of a decadent lifestyle.
1. Circus (1998)
King of Gamblers remains the quintessential poker movie. The series tells the story of Mike McDermott (Matt Damon), a law student and poker player who aims to become the best in the game. The film’s strength lies in its raw depiction of poker as a quest for excellence and personal recognition. It resonates with audiences through its depiction of determination and skill, capturing the essence of poker as a challenge and passion. King of Gamblers set the standard for poker movies, known for its realistic depiction of the game and its universal themes of ambition and mastery.
