The 30 Best Poker Movies for Every Poker Fan

Best Poker Movies You Need to Watch

Our team has compiled a definitive list of the best poker movies ever made. To qualify for this list, poker needed to play a significant role in the storyline, and the film had to achieve a minimum IMDb rating of 6.0/10 with at least 5,000 user votes.

This selection spans a variety of genres—from silent films and dark comedies to neo-noirs and Westerns. Some titles are so culturally significant they’ve been added to the U.S. National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.

Browse the list below to see how many of these classics you’ve already watched and find your next favorite.

The Card Counter (2021)

• Director: Paul Schrader
• Starring: Oscar Isaac, Tye Sheridan, Willem Dafoe
• Genre: Crime, Drama
• IMDb Rating: 7.8 (7K ratings)
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 102 minutes

William (Oscar Isaac) spent ten years in prison for a war crime. During his incarceration, he mastered card counting in blackjack and became a skilled poker player. After his release, William adopts a nomadic lifestyle, traveling from casino to casino and earning a living through gambling.

His routine is disrupted when he meets Kirk (Tye Sheridan), a young man seeking revenge against their mutual adversary, Gordo (Willem Dafoe). Together, they embark on a journey driven by vengeance, but William’s internal struggles with his past cast a shadow over their mission.

What’s in the film?

• Blackjack, poker, and roulette, with strategic insights into each game.
• A focus on the protagonist’s poker face and mental discipline.
• Immersive casino atmosphere.
• Homages to classic poker films like The Hustler and The Cincinnati Kid.

Poker occupies a significant portion of the film, making up nearly half of the screen time. The games feature No-Limit Hold’em, WSOP Circuit tournaments, and even subtle product placements, such as PokerStars patches appearing on screen.

Despite its strong poker content, the film lacks a poker-centered resolution. While the protagonist participates in high-stakes games and reaches final tables, the story’s climax revolves around his personal conflicts rather than the outcomes of these tournaments. If you’re expecting an action-packed film with a twist-ending poker showdown, this movie might not fully satisfy.

Molly’s Game (2017)

• Director: Aaron Sorkin
• Starring: Jessica Chastain, Idris Elba, Kevin Costner
• Genre: Biography, Drama
• IMDb Rating: 7.4
• Metascore: 71
• Runtime: 140 minutes

Jessica Chastain plays Molly Bloom in “Molly’s Game”, a biographical crime drama based on the titular character’s memoir. After her Olympic skiing vacation comes to an end following a terrible accident, Bloom shifts careers and ends up building an underground poker empire that eventually gets exposed and becomes the focus of an FBI investigation. The 2017 film—which marked Aaron Sorkin’s directorial debut—also stars Idris Elba, Michael Cera, Kevin Costner, and Jeremy Strong, among other performers.

The Grand (2007)

• Director: Zak Penn
• Starring: Woody Harrelson, Cheryl Hines, David Cross
• Genre: Comedy
• IMDb Rating: 6.0
• Metascore: 57
• Runtime: 104 minutes

The Grand is a parody of poker films filled with satire, improvisation, and over-the-top humor. The story follows Jack Faro (Woody Harrelson), a chaotic casino owner who organizes a $10 million winner-takes-all poker tournament to pay off his debts.

What’s in the film?

• No-Limit Hold’em with real poker pros on screen.
• Eccentric characters like a math prodigy, a poker legend, and a multitasking mother.
• Satirical humor and an unexpected comedic ending.

Though divisive among audiences, The Grand delivers a unique take on poker films with its mix of absurdity and genuine poker action. The extended screen time of professional players adds authenticity for fans of the game.

Casino Royale (2006)

• Director: Martin Campbell
• Starring: Daniel Craig, Eva Green, Mads Mikkelsen
• Genre: Action, Thriller
• IMDb Rating: 8.0
• Metascore: 80
• Runtime: 144 minutes

Casino Royale marks the debut of Daniel Craig as James Bond, portraying 007 in the early days of his career. The plot centers on Bond’s mission to bankrupt Le Chiffre (Mads Mikkelsen), a terrorist financier, during a tense high-stakes poker game at Casino Royale in Montenegro. The film revitalized the Bond series, leading to four sequels, ending with No Time to Die (2021).

Stuey (2003)

• Director: A.W. Vidmer
• Starring: Michael Imperioli, Renee Faia, Michael Nouri
• Genre: Biography, Drama
• IMDb Rating: 6.1
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 110 minutes

Stuey (also known as High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story) portrays the life of legendary poker player Stu Ungar. From earning money as a 10-year-old card prodigy in New York to escaping the mafia, winning the World Championship, and falling from grace, the movie captures his incredible highs and devastating lows.

What’s in the film?

• A deep dive into Stu Ungar’s life story, from childhood to his rise and fall.
• Emotional lessons about the dangers of gambling, substance abuse, and the value of family and relationships.
• Beautifully shot scenes of Las Vegas, but minimal poker gameplay.

This movie is strange. It is beautifully filmed, with scenes from Las Vegas, and it features a bit of poker. However, it might seem very slow and bland. There’s little color or contrast in the characters, plot, and drama. If you’re hoping to see how Ungar played or acted at the table, you’ll be disappointed. If you want drama based on real events, you’ll get it.

Shade (2003)

• Director: Damian Nieman
• Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Gabriel Byrne, Thandie Newton
• Genre: Crime, Thriller
• IMDb Rating: 6.3
• Metascore: 40
• Runtime: 101 minutes

Shade is a crime-thriller about a group of hustlers scheming to outwit Dean “The Dean” Stevens (Sylvester Stallone), a nearly unbeatable gambler, in a $250,000 poker game. Filled with twists, cons, and high-stakes poker, the film delivers a fun, fast-paced experience reminiscent of classics like Maverick and The Cincinnati Kid.

What’s in the film?

• A variety of poker disciplines: Hold’em, Five-Card Draw, and Stud.
• Hustling and con artistry with plenty of tension and surprises.
• A memorable finale featuring Stallone’s standout performance.

In Shade, there is probably the widest variety of poker disciplines featured. At the very beginning, they play Hold’em. In the middle, they play five-card draw poker with Western rules, similar to the game in A Big Hand for the Little Lady. And at the end, they play Stud.

Finder’s Fee (2001)

• Director: Jeff Probst
• Starring: Erik Palladino, Ryan Reynolds, James Earl Jones, Matthew Lillard
• Genre: Thriller, Drama
• IMDb Rating: 6.3
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 100 minutes

Finder’s Fee is a suspenseful thriller centered around a weekly home poker game of Limit Hold’em. The story takes a dramatic turn when Tepper, the host, discovers a wallet containing a winning $6 million lottery ticket just before the game starts. The wallet’s owner arrives at the game, setting off a tense and morally complex evening.

What’s in the film?

• A high-stakes poker game intertwined with moral dilemmas.
• Intense performances by a strong cast including Ryan Reynolds and James Earl Jones.
• A single-room setting that amplifies the suspense and drama.
• A clever, unpredictable ending that keeps you thinking.

With poker as the backdrop, the film explores human psychology and moral conflicts, making it a compelling watch for fans of thrillers and character-driven dramas.

Ocean’s Eleven (2001)

• Director: Steven Soderbergh
• Starring: George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Julia Roberts, Andy García
• Genre: Crime, Thriller
• IMDb Rating: 7.7
• Metascore: 74
• Runtime: 116 minutes

Though poker is not the central theme of Ocean’s Eleven, gambling, heists, and the glitzy allure of Las Vegas casinos are integral to its charm. This 2001 remake of the 1960 film follows Danny Ocean (George Clooney) and his crew of con artists and thieves as they plan an audacious heist to rob three Las Vegas casinos in one night.

The film’s success lies in its seamless mix of wit, style, and suspense, backed by a star-studded cast including Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Julia Roberts, and Andy García. Each character brings their own quirks and expertise to the heist, creating a dynamic ensemble that keeps the audience hooked.

Steven Soderbergh’s direction paired with the film’s undeniable entertainment value led to two sequels, Ocean’s Twelve (2004) and Ocean’s Thirteen (2007), as well as an all-female spin-off, Ocean’s 8 (2018), proving the enduring appeal of this iconic franchise.

Rounders (1998)

• Director: John Dahl
• Starring: Matt Damon, Edward Norton, John Malkovich
• Genre: Drama, Crime
• IMDb Rating: 7.3
• Metascore: 54
• Runtime: 121 minutes

Rounders is a timeless classic that has defined the poker film genre. The story revolves around Mike McDermott (Matt Damon), a talented law student who dreams of making it big in high-stakes poker. After a crushing defeat to the menacing Teddy KGB (John Malkovich), Mike steps away from the game. But when his reckless friend Worm (Edward Norton) gets into trouble, Mike returns to the poker table for one final showdown with Teddy, risking everything to clear their debts.

The film excels with gripping performances, particularly from Damon and Norton, and its realistic depiction of underground poker games. It’s not just about poker strategy; Rounders dives into themes of loyalty, ambition, and the psychological battles players face at the table. John Malkovich’s unforgettable portrayal of Teddy KGB adds a layer of intensity, making the film a must-watch for both poker fans and lovers of crime dramas.

Croupier (1998)

• Director: Mike Hodges
• Starring: Clive Owen, Alex Kingston, Gina McKee
• Genre: Drama, Crime, Thriller
• IMDb Rating: 7.1
• Metascore: 75
• Runtime: 94 minutes

Clive Owen stars as Jack Manfred, an unsuccessful writer who begrudgingly takes a job as a card dealer at a local casino, in “Croupier.” The British neo-noir finds just the right balance between action and atmosphere, paying homage to early detective noir films with interior monologues. It also helped launch Owen’s acting career in the United States.

Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998)

• Director: Guy Ritchie
• Starring: Jason Flemyng, Dexter Fletcher, Jason Statham, Vinnie Jones
• Genre: Crime, Comedy
• IMDb Rating: 8.2
• Metascore: 66
• Runtime: 107 minutes

Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels is a darkly comedic heist film that weaves a chaotic and highly entertaining story. It follows four friends—Eddie, Tom, Soap, and Bacon—who pool £100,000 for Eddie, a skilled card player, to join a high-stakes three-card brag game. When the game turns out to be rigged, the group finds themselves owing £500,000 to the ruthless “Hatchet” Harry. What follows is a chaotic blend of debt collection, crime, and hilariously absurd twists.

The film marked the feature debuts of Jason Statham and Vinnie Jones, whose performances added to the gritty, stylish appeal that director Guy Ritchie is known for. With its sharp dialogue, eccentric characters, and fast-paced plot, this movie remains a cult classic in the crime-comedy genre.

Maverick (1994)

• Director: Richard Donner
• Starring: Mel Gibson, Jodie Foster, James Garner
• Genre: Western, Comedy, Adventure
• IMDb Rating: 7.0
• Metascore: 62
• Runtime: 127 minutes

Maverick is a delightful adventure-comedy set in the Wild West, following the charming and resourceful Bret Maverick (Mel Gibson) as he prepares to enter the World Poker Championship, a high-stakes Five-Card Draw tournament with a $25,000 buy-in. Short by $3,000, Maverick embarks on a comedic and action-packed journey to gather the remaining money, meeting a cast of colorful characters, including the clever Annabelle Bransford (Jodie Foster).

The film masterfully blends poker action with humor, set against the backdrop of the Wild West. With its witty dialogue, engaging narrative, and memorable performances, Maverick captures the spirit of poker and adventure. The Oscar-nominated costume design further enhances the authenticity of the era, making it a visual and narrative treat for both poker fans and general audiences.

The Music of Chance (1993)

• Director: Philip Haas
• Starring: James Spader, Mandy Patinkin, Charles Durning
• Genre: Drama, Mystery
• IMDb Rating: 7.1
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 98 minutes

The Music of Chance begins as a quirky crime story and evolves into a surreal, thought-provoking narrative. Jim Nash (Mandy Patinkin), a former firefighter seeking a fresh start, encounters Jack Pozzi (James Spader), a down-on-his-luck poker player. Jack persuades Jim to back him with $10,000 for a high-stakes Seven-Card Stud game against two eccentric millionaires, Bill Flower and Will Stone.

Initially, Jack wins big, but his luck takes a drastic turn, leaving both men in debt. To settle their losses, the millionaires impose a bizarre punishment: Jim and Jack must build a colossal stone wall from the ruins of an ancient castle. As the duo toils under the weight of their debt, the film shifts into a surreal exploration of freedom, choices, and human resilience.

Dou San (1989)

• Director: Wong Jing
• Starring: Chow Yun-Fat, Andy Lau, Joey Wong
• Genre: Action, Comedy, Drama
• IMDb Rating: 7.3
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 126 minutes

Dou San (God of Gamblers) is a Hong Kong classic that masterfully combines action, comedy, and drama. The film follows Ko Chun (Chow Yun-Fat), a legendary gambler known as the “God of Gamblers,” whose extraordinary skills and charm make him unbeatable at any game. However, after a fall causes him to lose his memory, Ko Chun is found by a small-time con artist, Knife (Andy Lau), who discovers his abilities and decides to exploit them. The twist? Ko Chun now behaves like a child, creating humorous and emotional moments as he navigates his new reality.

The movie is packed with thrilling gambling scenes, including Five-Card Stud, Mahjong, and dice poker, along with intense action sequences and heartfelt drama. Chow Yun-Fat’s charismatic performance makes Ko Chun a truly memorable character, blending wit, vulnerability, and charm.

House of Games (1987)

• Director: David Mamet
• Starring: Lindsay Crouse, Joe Mantegna, Mike Nussbaum
• Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
• IMDb Rating: 7.3
• Metascore: 78
• Runtime: 102 minutes

House of Games is a psychological thriller that delves into deception, trust, and the art of the con. Margaret Ford (Lindsay Crouse), a successful psychiatrist and author, becomes entangled in the shadowy world of hustlers after trying to help a gambling-addicted patient. Her encounter with the cunning con artist Mike (Joe Mantegna) leads her into a poker game where she tries to read tells but instead becomes ensnared in a larger, more elaborate scam.

Praised for its sharp dialogue and suspenseful narrative, the film is an intense exploration of manipulation and human psychology. Stanley Kubrick himself admired House of Games, and it holds a place in the New York Times’ list of the top 1000 films of all time. With its noir aesthetic, unexpected twists, and focus on psychological drama, this movie is a must-watch for fans of suspense and mind games.

Poker Alice (1987)

• Director: Arthur Allan Seidelman
• Starring: Elizabeth Taylor, Tom Skerritt, George Hamilton
• Genre: Western, Comedy
• IMDb Rating: 6.2
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 93 minutes

Poker Alice is a lighthearted Western comedy inspired by the real-life adventures of Alice Ivers, a legendary female gambler in the Wild West. The film follows Alice (Elizabeth Taylor), a free-spirited woman who travels with her devoted cousin John (Tom Skerritt). While John dreams of marriage, Alice is focused on the thrill of gambling and the freedom it brings.

During a poker game on a train, Alice wins a brothel in a hand of Five-Card Stud. Her new mission is to sell the brothel, but not before setting some unconventional rules, such as requiring the prostitutes to rest on Sundays and read the Bible. These quirky details add charm to the story, reflecting the historical character of Poker Alice, who left her mark on the Wild West.

Asso (1981)

• Director: Franco Castellano, Giuseppe Moccia
• Starring: Adriano Celentano, Edwige Fenech
• Genre: Comedy, Romance
• IMDb Rating: 6.5
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 90 minutes

Asso is a lighthearted poker comedy starring Adriano Celentano as a charming and eccentric poker player. The story begins with Asso marrying the beautiful Silvia (Edwige Fenech) and vowing to quit gambling forever. But on their wedding night, fate tempts him back to the poker table to face the legendary gambler Marseillais in a high-stakes Five-Card Draw match.

Filled with witty humor, clever bluffs, and memorable poker moments, Asso delivers plenty of laughs and absurdity. The film takes an unexpected turn when Asso meets an untimely end but returns as a ghost visible only to Silvia, determined to help her find happiness. With a blend of romance, poker antics, and Celentano’s magnetic charm, this movie is a delightful pick for anyone seeking an entertaining and feel-good comedy.

Atlantic City (1980)

• Director: Louis Malle
• Starring: Susan Sarandon, Burt Lancaster
• Genre: Crime, Drama, Romance
• IMDb Rating: 7.8
• Metascore: 85
• Runtime: 104 minutes

Susan Sarandon stars in “Atlantic City” as Sally, a casino waitress with dreams to be a blackjack dealer—but she has an estranged husband whose nefarious deeds haunt her. Though the movie is not specifically about poker, a scene that sets the action in motion takes place during an illegal poker game in a hotel room. The film was nominated for the “Big Five” Academy Awards (Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Original Screenplay); however, it failed to take any Oscars home. Even so, it was eventually added to the U.S. National Film Registry of the Library of Congress in 2003.

The Killing of a Chinese Bookie (1976)

• Director: John Cassavetes
• Starring: Ben Gazzara, Timothy Carey, Seymour Cassel
• Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
• IMDb Rating: 7.4
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 135 minutes (original cut), 108 minutes (shorter cut)

The Killing of a Chinese Bookie is a neo-noir classic that intertwines gambling and crime with psychological depth. The film follows Cosmo Vittelli (Ben Gazzara), a strip club owner who, after finally paying off his gambling debt, quickly finds himself in trouble again. In a fateful poker game, he racks up $23,000 in debt and is coerced into carrying out a dangerous hit on a Chinese bookie to settle what he owes.

Though initially met with mixed reviews, the film has grown into a cult classic, admired for its raw performances, gritty aesthetic, and John Cassavetes’ unconventional storytelling. This character-driven crime drama is a must-watch for fans of noir and psychological tension.

California Split (1974)

• Director: Robert Altman
• Starring: George Segal, Elliott Gould, Ann Prentiss
• Genre: Comedy, Drama
• IMDb Rating: 7.2
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 108 minutes

California Split is a character-driven dramedy that delves into the highs and lows of gambling. The story follows Bill Denny (George Segal), a magazine editor, and Charlie Waters (Elliott Gould), a carefree gambler, who form an unlikely friendship after meeting at a poker game. Their bond leads them to Reno, Nevada, on a quest for the ultimate jackpot, exploring the chaotic, emotionally charged lifestyle of gamblers along the way.

Robert Altman’s direction gives the film a raw, impressionistic quality, focusing on the characters’ emotional journeys rather than a traditional plot. While the movie features poker (Lowball, Ace-to-Five) and other gambling staples like horse racing, blackjack, and roulette, it’s less about the games themselves and more about the psychology and camaraderie of gambling.

With its mix of humor and melancholy, California Split offers a poignant yet entertaining look at the gambling world, making it an engaging choice for fans of character studies and unconventional narratives.

The Sting (1973)

• Director: George Roy Hill
• Starring: Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Robert Shaw
• Genre: Crime, Drama, Comedy
• IMDb Rating: 8.3
• Metascore: 83
• Runtime: 129 minutes

The Sting is a masterful blend of crime, comedy, and drama, showcasing the art of the con through the eyes of grifters Henry Gondorff (Paul Newman) and Johnny Hooker (Robert Redford). Set in 1930s Chicago, the film follows their elaborate schemes to outwit a powerful mob boss, including a memorable scene where Gondorff out-cheats him in a high-stakes poker game.

Celebrated for its sharp wit, intricate plot, and unforgettable performances, The Sting swept the 46th Academy Awards, winning seven Oscars, including Best Picture. Its enduring legacy led to its selection for preservation in the U.S. National Film Registry. The movie’s clever twists and engaging story make it a timeless classic for fans of clever crime dramas.

McCabe & Mrs. Miller (1971)

• Director: Robert Altman
• Starring: Warren Beatty, Julie Christie, Rene Auberjonois
• Genre: Western, Drama
• IMDb Rating: 7.6
• Metascore: 85
• Runtime: 120 minutes

McCabe & Mrs. Miller is a unique, atmospheric Western set in a remote mining town in the early 20th century. The story follows McCabe (Warren Beatty), a gambler who arrives in town with plans to open a brothel. He soon partners with Mrs. Miller (Julie Christie), a savvy and experienced businesswoman who helps turn the establishment into a thriving enterprise.

However, their success draws the attention of a powerful corporation that wants to buy them out. When McCabe refuses to sell, demanding an exorbitant price, the situation escalates as the company hires killers to remove him. With its snowy, desolate setting, stunning cinematography, and a haunting Leonard Cohen soundtrack, the film is a contemplative and artistic take on the Western genre.

While poker plays a minor role, with McCabe participating in a few Five-Card Stud games, the film’s true focus lies on its complex characters and the harsh realities of life in a rugged, unforgiving frontier. Widely regarded as a masterpiece, it’s also known to be one of Stanley Kubrick’s favorite films.

Cool Hand Luke (1967)

• Director: Stuart Rosenberg
• Starring: Paul Newman, George Kennedy, Strother Martin
• Genre: Drama
• IMDb Rating: 8.1
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 127 minutes

Cool Hand Luke is a classic prison drama that centers on Lucas “Luke” Jackson (Paul Newman), a charismatic and rebellious inmate who inspires his fellow prisoners through his unbreakable spirit. The film’s title comes from a memorable poker scene where Luke wins by bluffing with a worthless hand, earning him the nickname “Cool Hand Luke.”

Celebrated for its powerful performances, the film garnered Newman an Oscar nomination for Best Actor, while George Kennedy won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Dragline, Luke’s closest friend in prison. With its poignant story and timeless themes of defiance and perseverance, Cool Hand Luke remains a standout in cinematic history.

5 Card Stud (1968)

• Director: Henry Hathaway
• Starring: Dean Martin, Robert Mitchum, Roddy McDowall
• Genre: Western, Mystery
• IMDb Rating: 6.5
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 103 minutes

5 Card Stud is a Western-mystery hybrid with a gripping premise. The story begins at a poker table in the Wild West, where a player is caught cheating during a game of Five-Card Stud. Justice is swift and brutal as the other players form a lynch mob. Soon after, the surviving participants of that fateful game start turning up dead, and the film becomes a suspenseful whodunit as the murderer’s identity and motive are slowly revealed.

While not overly philosophical, the film offers plenty of tension, atmospheric Western settings, and a compelling mix of mystery and action. It’s an engaging choice for fans of classic Westerns and suspenseful storytelling.

Poker With Pistols (1967)

• Director: Giuseppe Vari
• Starring: George Eastman, Jack Betts, Gianni Medici
• Genre: Western, Spaghetti Western
• IMDb Rating: 6.2
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 95 minutes

Un poker di pistole is a spaghetti western filled with surreal gambling moments and unconventional twists. The story revolves around Lucas, a skilled card player, who is challenged to a poker game by the enigmatic Terrell. The stakes are high, with intense Five-Card Stud games showcasing improbable hands like full houses and four-of-a-kinds. As the plot unfolds, Lucas becomes entangled in a bizarre mission to deliver worthless paper in exchange for clearing his debt and earning a $5,000 reward.

The film’s gambling scenes, including poker and roulette, are shot with meticulous detail, capturing the drama and tension of the games. With its unique mix of surrealism and spaghetti western tropes, Un poker di pistole is a hidden gem for fans of the genre, offering unexpected twists and entertaining escapades.

A Big Hand for the Little Lady (1966)

• Director: Fielder Cook
• Starring: Henry Fonda, Joanne Woodward, Jason Robards
• Genre: Comedy, Western, Drama
• IMDb Rating: 7.3
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 95 minutes

A Big Hand for the Little Lady is a delightful Western comedy centered around a high-stakes poker game in Laredo, Texas. The annual game draws prominent players, each abandoning their responsibilities to join the table. When a traveling family—Meredith (Henry Fonda), his wife Mary (Joanne Woodward), and their son—stumbles upon the event, Meredith, a recovering gambler, is tempted to join.

As the game progresses, Meredith loses everything, collapses from a heart attack, and leaves Mary to finish the hand. With no poker experience and no money, Mary must navigate the tense, rule-laden game. The film charms with its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and a cleverly unexpected ending that cements its place as one of the most enjoyable comedic Westerns.

The Cincinnati Kid (1965)

• Director: Norman Jewison
• Starring: Steve McQueen, Edward G. Robinson, Ann-Margret
• Genre: Drama
• IMDb Rating: 7.3
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 102 minutes

The Cincinnati Kid is a classic poker drama that tells the story of Eric “The Kid” Stoner (Steve McQueen), the best Five-Card Stud player in New Orleans. When the legendary player Lancy Howard (Edward G. Robinson) arrives in town, the Kid challenges him, setting the stage for an intense, high-stakes showdown.

The film stands out for its meticulous attention to detail, with every character, setting, and costume bringing 1930s New Orleans to life. The poker scenes are gripping and authentic, immersing viewers in the strategy and tension of the game. Unlike many Hollywood films, The Cincinnati Kid delivers a realistic and thought-provoking ending, exploring themes of honesty and resilience.

For poker enthusiasts and fans of dramatic storytelling, this film is a must-watch, often compared to Rounders as one of the best in the genre.

Destry Rides Again (1939)

• Director: George Marshall
• Starring: James Stewart, Marlene Dietrich, Brian Donlevy
• Genre: Western, Comedy, Drama
• IMDb Rating: 7.7
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 94 minutes

Destry Rides Again is a classic Western with a mix of humor, drama, and action. The story begins with saloon owner Kent (Brian Donlevy) orchestrating the murder of the town sheriff to cover up a rigged poker game. When Thomas Jefferson “Tom” Destry Jr. (James Stewart) is appointed deputy, he uses his wit, charm, and unorthodox methods to restore order to the lawless town of Bottleneck.

With standout performances by James Stewart and Marlene Dietrich, this film captures the essence of the Western genre while offering a unique comedic twist. Its compelling narrative and memorable characters make it a timeless favorite.

Dr. Mabuse, the Gambler (1922)

• Director: Fritz Lang
• Starring: Rudolf Klein-Rogge, Aud Egede-Nissen, Alfred Abel
• Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
• IMDb Rating: 7.9
• Metascore: N/A
• Runtime: 242 minutes

Dr. Mabuse, the Gambler is a German silent film that introduces audiences to the diabolical genius Dr. Mabuse (Rudolf Klein-Rogge). A master of disguise and hypnotism, Mabuse manipulates high-stakes card games in illegal casinos to amass his fortune. The film is a sprawling epic, split into two parts, chronicling his elaborate schemes and ultimate downfall.

Praised for its inventive storytelling and expressionist visuals, the film captures the decadence and chaos of 1920s Germany while exploring themes of power and corruption. The climax, in which a deranged Mabuse hallucinates his victims, is as haunting as it is unforgettable, cementing the film as a masterpiece of early cinema.

Did We Miss Your Favorite Movie?

Is your favorite movie about poker missing from our list? Or do you know of a hidden gem that deserves a spot? We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below. Your suggestion might just become a new favorite for other readers too!