Top Classic Gambling Movies to Revisit and Enjoy
Gambling has been popular since time immemorial, with evidence of dice games in ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and China. The concept of betting on the outcome of games dates back to early civilizations, and the growth of organized gambling can be traced back to ancient Rome where ludi (public games) were held for entertainment and betting purposes.
It should come as no surprise that casinos are often used as a setting in movies, allowing the viewer to experience the glitz and glam of gambling from the comfort of their own living room. Keep reading to discover the top gambling movies that have stood the test of time:
The Hangover
Doug, played by Justin Bartha, and his three friends, played by Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, go to Las Vegas for a wild bachelor party two days before the wedding. The next day, the three groomsmen wake up with no memory and can’t find Doug. They scramble to retrace their steps and find him, aiming to return him to LA for the wedding. The film is full of hilarious moments, perfectly depicting just how wild and crazy adventures in Las Vegas can be.
If you’re looking for a less intense experience of casino games, then check out an online casino, where you’ll find anything from poker and blackjack, to slot games. You’ll find a variety of slot games that are based on different themes, such as the jungle, or vampires. All you need to enjoy the wide variety of games on the platform is a mobile device and an internet connection!
Rain Man (1988)
Charlie Babbitt, played by Tom Cruise, is a car dealer that goes back to Cincinnati after learning of his father’s death. He finds out he has an autistic older brother named Raymond (Dustin Hoffman) and that his father left $3 million at the mental institution where Raymond resides.
Driven by the prospect of fortune, Charlie takes Raymond on a journey to Las Vegas, where he uses his brother’s incredible intellectual abilities to count cards at the blackjack tables. Both Cruise and Hoffman play their characters extraordinarily well, and it’s no surprise that Hoffman won an Oscar for his performance.
The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
Based on a novel by Richard Jessup, this film tells the story of Eric Stoner, aka “Cincinnati Kid”, played by Steve McQueen, who is a young poker player who aims to establish his reputation by defeating the top player, Lancey “The Man” Howard, who is played by Edward G. Robinson. His friend “Shooter” sets up a game with Howard. However, Stoner finds out the game is rigged against Howard by Slade seeking revenge for his loss to Howard. Stoner objects because he wants to win on his own merit.
Gambling movies have been captivating audiences for decades, providing a glimpse into the exciting world of casinos and games. From the hilarious antics of “The Hangover” to the heartwarming journey of “Rain Man,” these movies showcase the thrill of gambling, the relationships formed and tested, and the personal growth of their characters.