For hundreds of years, humans have enjoyed some form of gambling, so it makes sense that Hollywood creates feature films around the activity. Gambling is connected to drama, excitement, and a little laughter. It’s easy for movies to be based on casinos and the activities within, and the movies get it right almost every time with a unique storyline and cast of characters.
Whether you enjoy visiting traditional casinos or prefer online casinos, there are movies that capture both worlds. While traditional casino movies often focus on the bustling atmosphere of physical gaming establishments, films that touch on online casinos delve into the digital age of gambling. Online casino movies may explore themes of virtual poker rooms, internet gambling schemes, and the evolving landscape of gaming technology. Regardless of your preference, there are gambling-themed movies to suit your taste. Find serious films based on crime and action, along with light-hearted titles featuring the best comedians in the business. No matter your mood, there are gambling-themed movies to enjoy.
Vegas Vacation
If you are looking for a light-hearted comedy based in a casino, try Vegas Vacation. The movie was released in 1997 and is another notch on Chevy Chase’s belt as Clark Griswold. Clark ends up with a gambling addiction and finds himself at odds with a card counter named Marty. Clark is terrible at gambling, so it’s funny to watch him stumble his way through the casino.
The movie is not the best in the franchise, but it is a great choice if you are looking for a Las Vegas-themed movie with a comedy twist and a simple storyline.
Ocean’s Eleven
Movie buffs searching for a more modern casino tale should try Ocean’s Eleven. Released in 2001, this movie is a remake of the original featuring the Rat Pack and offers a sleek taste of Vegas with George Clooney and Brad Pitt at the helm.
The characters in this movie have swagger and style while they try to pull off the ultimate heist in Atlantic City. This film has a fantastic storyline and all the right faces, creating appeal for female and male viewers.
Casino
If you want to continue with an old-school theme, watch Casino, a film starring Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci. The movie was first released in 1995 and still stands the test of time today. It’s based on the true story of the rise and fall of a 1970s Las Vegas casino boss.
The movie ties Las Vegas gaming to the criminal underworld and brings all the drama to the big screen. Pesci plays a dominating mob enforcer, while De Niro is the main man in charge. Sharon Stone earned a Best Actress Academy Award nomination for her role as Ginger McKenna. Overall, this movie highlights the dark side of Vegas and is one to add to a list of casino-themed movies.
Molly’s Game
This feature film is based on Molly Bloom, played by Jessica Chastain. Kevin Costner and Idris Elba also play major roles in the film as we learn about Bloom’s role in the poker industry.
Molly Bloom was notorious for hosting high-stakes poker games among the rich and famous. It provides a unique look into the world of poker and Hollywood, with many big names having been rumored to appear at Bloom’s poker tables.
The Card Counter
One of the newer films on the list, The Card Counter, was released in 2021 and follows the life of a professional card counter who travels to various casinos to make a living. The film stars Oscar Isaac as William Tell, a gambler and former serviceman who wants to play cards but ends up trying to help a young man who wants revenge on a mutual enemy. It’s a unique take on gambling and provides a psychological thriller-style experience that cannot be missed.