Poker has been around for centuries and is the subject of numerous movies. We have compiled a list of our favourites. From the classic "Casino" to more recent films such as "The Grand Budapest Hotel," these poker movies will keep you entertained for hours! Our list of the best poker movies ever made will please any poker enthusiast.
The Best Poker Movies
Since then, there have been dozens of Poker Movies released, with varying levels of success. Some of the more notable ones include Rounders (1998), Casino Royale (2006), and The Hangover (2009). While the quality of these movies varies, one thing is for sure: poker is a fascinating game that makes for great cinema. Poker Movies are a great place to start if you're looking for a movie to watch on a rainy day or want to learn more about the game.
If you're looking for something new to watch, check out our list of these poker movie classics:
Top 10 Poker Movies:
- The Hustler (1961)
- The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
- The Sting (1973)
- Maverick (1994)
- Casino (1995)
- Rounders (1998)
- Croupier (1998)
- Casino Royale (2006)
- Lucky You (2007)
- Poker House (2008)
Let's begin!
"The Hustler"
The poker movie genre has been around since the days of black and white films. The first notable poker
movie was The Hustler, released in 1961. Starring Paul Newman as "Fast Eddie" Felson, The Hustler tells the story of a small-time pool hustler who takes on the best player in the world. Although he loses, Fast Eddie's skills as a poker player are undeniable.
"The Cincinnati Kid"
Many poker enthusiasts consider "The Cincinnati Kid" one of the best poker movies ever made. It was released in 1965; the film tells the story of a young poker player who challenges an experienced veteran to a game of poker. The cast includes some big names, such as Steve McQueen and Edward G. Robinson, and the movie was nominated for two Academy Awards. If you are looking for an old-school poker movie, then "The Cincinnati Kid" is a great option!
"The Sting"
Poker has been around for centuries, and one of the first poker movies released in 1973, "The Sting," is a classic. It tells the story of two con artists who use poker to take down a mobster. The Sting is a great casino movie that also includes some poker action. The film was nominated for numerous awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.
The film is very well-made and captures the excitement, suspense, and stakes involved in high-stakes gambling. While the poker scenes are well-done, the rest of the movie is just as enjoyable. If you're looking for a good casino movie that includes some great poker action, "The Sting" is definitely worth watching.
"Maverick"
Maverick is a great poker movie because it is not just about the game. It was released in 1994. Poker is a central plot device used to drive the story, but it is not the only focus. The characters are well-developed, and the film conveys the excitement, suspense, and stakes involved in high-stakes poker. While the poker scenes are well-done, the rest of the movie is just as enjoyable. If you're looking for a good casino movie that includes some great poker action, Maverick is worth watching.
"Casino"
Another classic poker movie is Casino, released in 1995 and starring Robert De Niro and Sharon Stone. This movie tells the true story of how Las Vegas was taken over by the mafia in the 1970s and is full of edge-of-your-seat action. Whether you're a poker fan or not, Casino is definitely worth watching – it's one of my all-time favourite movies.
"Rounders"
Poker made its way to the small screen in 1998 with the release of "Rounders." This movie follows two friends (played by Matt Damon and Edward Norton) as they attempt to make a living playing poker. The film was well-received by critics and nominated for several awards, including a Golden Globe for
Damon's performance. If you are looking for an interesting poker movie that is more recent, then "Rounders" is a great option!
"Croupier"
Croupier is a great casino movie that also includes some poker action. The film is very well-made and captures the excitement, suspense, and stakes involved in high-stakes gambling. While the poker scenes are well-done, the rest of the movie is just as enjoyable. If you're looking for a good casino movie that also includes some great poker action, Croupier is definitely worth watching.
"Casino Royale"
The most recent poker movie on our list is "Casino Royale." This 2006 film is a reboot of the James Bond franchise and stars Daniel Craig as the iconic spy. The movie features some impressive poker scenes, including a now-famous scene where Bond wins a game of Texas Hold 'em against villain Le Chiffre. If you are looking for an action-packed poker movie, then "Casino Royale" is a great option!
"Lucky You"
Lucky You is a 2007 American drama film. The film follows the story of a professional poker player named Huck Cheverie. The film was shot in Las Vegas.
The son of a professional poker player must overcome his demons and win the World Series of poker to save his father from financial ruin.
Bana stars as Huck Cheever, a talented but troubled young poker player who falls out with his father (Duvall) after quitting school to pursue cards full-time. Huck is trying to win a big tournament to finally pay off his debts and get his life back on track.
On May 18, 2007, the film was released to mixed reviews from critics. It grossed $22 million worldwide on a $70 million budget. Lucky You received nominations for the Satellite Award for Best Cinematography and the Young Hollywood Award for Standout Performance by an Actor.
"Poker House"
Then there's Poker House, a 2008 film starring Jennifer Lawrence. Poker House is based on the real-life experiences of writer and director Lori Petty, who also has a small role in the film. The Poker House follows Agnes (Lawrence), her mother Sarah (Selma Blair), and her older sister Cammie (Chloë Grace Moretz) as they try to make ends meet in their poverty-ridden home. Poker is how they make money, and the three women are all experts at the game.
Poker House is a searing look at poverty and addiction, and Lawrence gives a fantastic performance as Agnes. Poker House is one of the best poker movies out there, and it's definitely worth watching.
Bottom Line
Above are just a few of our favourite poker movies. Whether you are looking for an old classic or a more recent release, there will be a poker movie on this list that you will enjoy! So grab some popcorn and get ready to be entertained! Poker movies are a great way to spend an evening!
