The world of poker has often been serialized in films throughout the years in Hollywood and across the world. Films such as the many James Bond installments, where the secret agent could often be seen perched at the end of a poker table – betting millions while slurping on a martini – have portrayed the card game in a very lucrative light. However, the glamorisation of poker in films has often painted it in a false light not touching on the more “real†aspects of the game. That’s why we have come up with a definitive list of some of the films that will make you look at poker from an entirely different perspective.
1. ROUNDERS
Arguably one of poker’s most famous films, it follows the story of a failing law school graduate played by Matt Damon who keeps getting dragged down by his addiction to gambling, and from the loyalty he shows to his lowlife friend Worm, who’s played by the always-brilliant Ed Norton. John Malkovich also plays a part in their destruction until he and Damon meet at a heads-up game during the closing scenes of the film.
It’s a sterling look at the underground life of people that get absorbed by the underworld portrayed by some of our generation’s finest actors. Will there be a sequel, though? Damon and Norton certainly hope so.
2. RUNNER RUNNER
Runner Runner chronicles the lucrative industry of online poker. An industry that was launched back in 1996, it has since grown into one of the most money-spinning industries in the world. Ivan Block (Ben Affleck) moves from place to place with no regard for anyone’s safety but his own. However, it’s never plain sailing.
Justin Timberlake’s character gets pulled into this murky world when Affleck’s website is found out to be cheating its users.
3. CASINO ROYALE
Obviously, this list wouldn’t be complete without including the aforementioned British secret agent. Casino Royale typically looks at the more grandeur life of a spontaneous poker player that has the luxury of betting with absurd amounts of money. It won’t exactly give you a realistic look at the world of poker but it’s a nice fantasy to watch play out. And who doesn’t love a bit of James Bond, eh? Surely, we’ve all aspired to be as suave as James Bond at some point?
4. CINCINNATI KID
Released in 1965, it’s the oldest film in our list. Acclaimed actor Steve McQueen played the dashingly good-looking Cincinnati Kid looking for his big break. There are no major poker events under the guidance of an organization; this is another look at the world of underground poker. It has its fair share of love affairs like any McQueen film but the question is: will the Kid push his luck too far, this time?
5. MAVERICK
Starring Mel Gibson and Jodie Roberts, this film is set in the Wild West. Brett Maverick is in need of a quick buck, but on his way he must contend with a series of problems and the not so shy madam played by Roberts. Filled with dancing girls, smoke filled saloons and some quick-witted dialogue.
If you’re not done with the above films and want to learn more about poker, it’s probably ideal to look at the point in time when poker became extremely popular. Poker was launched online in 1996 through InterCasino, and essentially was the main catalyst for bringing poker to the mainstream. If this interests you, make sure to check out a German documentary film entitled ‘Poker Secrets’, which follows a young poker protégé and documents the “excitement that the younger generation” now has for the sport.
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