By Paul Harrison.
The incomparable game of poker continues to boast mass appeal across the gambling industry. From die-hard cardsharps to fans of the best eSports betting sites, such as that outlined in this midnite review, players gravitate towards the thrills provided by the turn of the card, the pushing of chips, and pitting their wits against the others gathered around the felt.
As a cornerstone of the gaming and gambling world, poker has unsurprisingly crossed over into the mainstream – serving as the inspiration for a collection of poker movies. Some attempts to bring poker to the big screen fall into the busted flush category, but others veer towards Royal Flush territory. Here, we present our five personal favorites.
- Rounders (1998)
Directed by: John Dahl
Starring: Matt Damon, Edward Norton, John Malkovich
For many fans, Rounders is the quintessential poker movie. Matt Damon stars as Mike McDermott, a talented poker player who must return to high-stakes games to help his friend Worm (Edward Norton) pay off a debt. The film dives deep into the underground poker scene, showcasing the highs and lows of life at the felt. John Malkovich’s portrayal of the eccentric Russian gangster Teddy KGB adds to the movie’s enduring charm. Beyond entertainment, Rounders inspired a generation of players, particularly during the poker boom of the early 2000s.
- High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story (2003)
Directed by: A. W. Vidmer
Starring: Michael Imperioli, Michael Nouri
High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story chronicles the meteoric rise and tragic fall of Stu Ungar, a poker prodigy and three-time World Series of Poker champion. Michael Imperioli delivers a compelling performance as Ungar, capturing the brilliance and vulnerabilities of a man whose genius at the poker table was matched only by his demons. The film provides a sobering glimpse into the high-stakes poker world, exploring themes of addiction, ambition, and self-destruction. With its raw storytelling and introspective tone, it paints a haunting portrait of a legend consumed by his excesses.
- The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
Directed by: Norman Jewison
Starring: Steve McQueen, Edward G. Robinson
This classic film is a must-watch for any poker aficionado. Steve McQueen stars as “The Kid,” a young and ambitious poker player seeking to prove himself by taking on the reigning champion, Lancey “The Man” Howard (Edward G. Robinson). Set in the Depression-era South, the movie emphasizes the psychological battles and character-driven drama that poker brings out. The climactic five-card stud game, whilst slightly improbable, is a masterclass in tension, demonstrating the timeless appeal of poker as a cinematic tool.
- Mississippi Grind (2015)
Directed by: Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Ben Mendelsohn
Mississippi Grind is a poignant exploration of gambling, friendship, and self-destruction. Ben Mendelsohn delivers a brilliant performance as Gerry, a down-on-his-luck gambler who teams up with the charismatic Curtis (Ryan Reynolds) on a road trip to various poker games across the Mississippi River. The film balances gritty realism with a heartfelt narrative, painting a complex picture of the poker world and the risks it entails. It’s less about poker mechanics and more about the lives of those who inhabit this high-stakes realm.
- Maverick (1994)
Directed by: Richard Donner
Starring: Mel Gibson, Jodie Foster, James Garner
This light-hearted Western comedy takes viewers on a rollicking poker adventure. Mel Gibson plays Bret Maverick, a charming gambler trying to gather enough money to enter a high-stakes poker tournament. With a delightful mix of comedy, deception, and poker action, Maverick captures the joy of the game in a way few other films do. Jodie Foster and James Garner deliver memorable performances, and the film’s climactic poker showdown is both thrilling and comedic.
PHOTO CREDITS: Movies