Poker has long been a source of inspiration for filmmakers, producing captivating stories that highlight the drama, skill, and high stakes of the game. From intense personal rivalries to underground games with life-altering consequences, poker movies offer something for every fan of the game. If you’re a poker enthusiast or just enjoy thrilling cinema, there are a few standout films that are essential viewing. Below is a selection of ten poker movies that truly bring the excitement of the game to life, starting with some lesser-known gems and leading up to the classics that every poker fan should see.

Luna’s Game (Juego de Luna) – 2001

This Spanish drama, directed by Monica Laguna, offers a deep dive into the life of Luna, a young woman whose childhood has been shaped by poker and gambling. After losing her mother and witnessing her father’s financial downfall due to gambling, Luna becomes a skilled poker player, determined to avenge her troubled past. Juego de Luna is not your typical poker film, but its raw emotional depth and exploration of gambling’s impact make it a compelling watch for poker fans and movie lovers alike.

Finder’s Fee – 2001

Directed by Jeff Probst, Finder’s Fee is an engaging drama that keeps you guessing until the very end. The film stars Eric Palladino and Ryan Reynolds in a story about a group of friends who play poker for low stakes. When one of them, Tepper, finds a wallet with a lottery ticket worth millions, his moral dilemma takes center stage. Will he keep the ticket or return it to its rightful owner? This film skillfully blends poker with a suspenseful plot, making it a must-watch.

Deal – 2008

Deal is a film that true poker enthusiasts will appreciate for its accurate depiction of poker culture and scenarios. The story follows Alex Stillman, a young poker player, and Tommy Vinson, a seasoned gambler who becomes his mentor. Their partnership faces challenges both at the table and in their personal lives, with the film offering cameos from real poker legends like Phil Laak and Antonio Esfandiari. It’s a great pick for those who want a more authentic representation of the poker world.

Lucky You – 2007

Released during the height of the poker boom, Lucky You stars Eric Bana as Huck Cheever, a talented but reckless poker player navigating the world of Las Vegas poker. His impulsive behavior leads to tension both in his personal relationships and at the poker table, especially with his father, played by Robert Duvall, who stands in his way. Featuring appearances by well-known poker personalities like Daniel Negreanu and Sam Farha, Lucky You captures the excitement of poker in Vegas.

Mississippi Grind – 2015

Mississippi Grind pairs Ben Mendelsohn and Ryan Reynolds as two gamblers on a road trip through the southern U.S., looking to turn their luck around. The film is an entertaining mix of poker, gambling, and personal redemption, with its blend of humor and drama making it one of the more enjoyable modern poker films. The characters’ flaws and struggles make them relatable, adding emotional weight to the poker scenes.

High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story – 2003

This biographical film tells the story of Stu Ungar, one of poker’s most legendary players. Portrayed by Michael Imperioli, Ungar’s rise in the poker world and his tragic downfall due to drug addiction is laid bare in High Roller. Known as “The Kid,” Ungar’s unparalleled talent and ultimate demise make for a poignant film about one of the game’s most fascinating figures.

The Gambler – 2014

The Gambler delves deep into the darker side of addiction and gambling. Mark Wahlberg stars as Jim Bennett, a man whose poker debts spiral out of control, putting his life in danger. As Jim’s situation worsens, his desperation leads him into a web of illegal gambling and dangerous liaisons. This film is a stark reminder of the risks associated with compulsive gambling and poker’s ability to both enrich and destroy lives.

All In: The Poker Movie – 2009

For those interested in the history and culture of poker, All In: The Poker Movie is an essential documentary. It chronicles the rise of poker’s popularity, particularly during the poker boom of the early 2000s, with insights from players like Chris Ferguson and Antonio Esfandiari. The film also addresses the effects of the 2011 Black Friday scandal that rocked the online poker world, offering a comprehensive look at the game’s modern evolution.

Molly’s Game – 2017

Molly’s Game is based on the real-life story of Molly Bloom, who went from Olympic skier to the host of one of the most exclusive underground poker games in the world. The film, directed by Aaron Sorkin, stars Jessica Chastain as Bloom and offers a glimpse into the high-stakes games she organized, involving Hollywood celebrities and business tycoons. It’s a gripping tale of ambition, risk, and the fine line between success and ruin in the poker world.

Rounders – 1998

No poker movie list would be complete without Rounders, the quintessential poker film. Starring Matt Damon as Mike McDermott, the film follows a young poker player trying to settle an old debt by entering high-stakes games. With a strong supporting cast, including Edward Norton and John Malkovich, Rounders has become a cult classic among poker fans, offering a realistic look at the life of a grinder navigating the world of underground poker games.

These films not only highlight the thrill and tension of poker but also showcase the emotional and psychological stakes involved. Each one captures a different aspect of the game, from lighthearted comedies to intense dramas, making them essential viewing for any poker lover.