Bring Your Own Poker Film

Poker is an inherently dramatic game, so it is no wonder that it features in movies a great deal. Here are some of the very best poker-centric movies that both novices and poker veterans can enjoy.

5. Casino Royale: This movie may be too recent to be regarded as any kind of classic, but its sheer quality and entertainment value can turn that argument aside. Not only does Daniel Craig make his debut here as possibly the best Bond yet, but we also get a Bond girl (Eva Green) who can actually hold her own against him, instead of being just a pretty face with a preposterous name. Though still great popcorn entertainment, it has to be said that this movie is a little “heavier” than its predecessors in that audience thoughts and feelings are more deeply engaged—and therefore put at risk. The title comes from a high-stakes poker game organized by the movie’s villain and infiltrated by Bond under the watchful eyes of Eva Green’s Vesper Lynd.

4. Rounders: Here, we see Matt Damon as a young law student who is caught between his studies and what he actually does to fund them: play high-stakes poker professionally, both against other professional players and against unwitting weekenders who have no idea they are up against a card sharp. The storyline is rather hackneyed, but the film is worthwhile because of some good performances from Damon and Edward Norton as his partner in crime. It also analyzes poker moves and features real-life poker luminaries.

3. Maverick: This is the feature film version of the popular televised Wild West serial that got one incarnation in the 50’s and 60’s and another in the 80’s. Mel Gibson has the title role, and Jodie Foster plays the female lead. Though the storyline is ostensibly centered on a poker championship, do not expect much discussion or elucidation of poker technique. Rather, revel in the cast’s great comic timing, and the fun action set-pieces that use real people instead of CGI. Truly, times have changed.

2. The Sting: In poker movies, usually honesty while playing is rewarded or at least considered honorable. Here, we have a showdown between two dishonest players. Yes, the hero here (played by the always-charismatic Paul Newman) is a cheat. Despite the relative lack of violence in this movie, we can say that this film shows a much darker view of poker as a whole than do other cinematic depictions of the game.

1. The Cincinnati Kid: This movie usually is found somewhere near the top of any list of great movies having to do with poker or gambling. Here, Alexander McQueen—one of the best actors to ever play a stubborn, rebellious character—is a young poker player eager to make his name. Damon’s character might be said to be a pallid, plaintive version of McQueen’s. Well, pop in this golden oldie and see the vibrant original. Even if you are one of those who does not like the finale, this movie still makes a great viewing session overall.