2 of the Best Classic Gambling Movies of All Time

We can’t talk about the best gambling movies of all time without mentioning some legendary Hollywood classics.

The Hustler, 1961

The Hustler is an absolute cinema classic. The immortal Paul Newman plays Eddie Felson, a player with an attitude that certainly doesn’t please everyone.

He is invested in putting his pool skills to test against the legendary Minnesota Fats.

Soon enough, Felson is out of luck and out of money. That’s when the ruthless Bert Gordon starts mentoring him. Only Gordon can get Felson to return to form.

As a 1961 picture, the story and the action of The Hustler are deeply rooted in the origins of the gambling backrooms on which the incomparable American casino industry was built.

The Sting, 1973

Curiously enough, The Sting is another fantastic gambling movie starring the great Paul Newman. This time, he is accompanied by another Hollywood royal, Robert Redford.

Newman and Redford play con men. One is a beginner, while the other is already a professional. Their new target is a crime boss who loves to lay some bets. The criminal is after Redford’s character because of a previous scam he pulled on him.

The Sting is one of the gambling movies with the most twists, surprises and complexities in the plot. The con gets increasingly dangerous and complicated, which puts in risk the lives of both central characters.

The finale is masterful, dramatic and suspenseful. Expect to find yourself on the edge of your seat.

While it could be fun to delve into one of these classics, perhaps you want some more ideas on what to watch while you take a break from gambling.

Next, we list other fantastic gambling movies that are definitely worth watching.

Casino

Based on a remarkable real story, Casino is a brilliant movie focused on the world of mafia-controlled gambling in Las Vegas.

Casino Royale

A James Bond classic packed with action, high stake games, strong performances and masterful twists.

Croupier

Croupier is a raw depiction of how the gambling lifestyle can also deeply affect the lives of casino workers.

Hard Eight

An amazing story of how gambling can lead players in an unstoppable and unpredictable roller coaster of highs and lows.

Ocean’s 11

A casino heist movie with all the elements that make up a perfect and nuanced piece of entertainment.

The Cincinnati Kid

The exciting story of a young man getting into expert-level gambling with huge stakes.

The Cooler

The Cooler is a fun and unique movie that navigates the concepts of luck and superstition.

The Gambler

Probably the rawest and emotional movie in the list, The Gambler honestly portrays an addict’s descent into destruction.

And that’s a wrap! Now that you have plenty of ideas of what gambling movies to watch, you are probably eager to get started. Whether you start off with one of the classics, or some from the turn of the century, we can guarantee a fantastic viewing experience.