Relax: Gambling Movies for a Calm Evening (Part V)

Croupier

Poker in today's reality is not what it used to be. Well, or at least not as it is portrayed in the movies.

A computer, an extra monitor, and hours spent at home or anywhere else are the everyday reality of today. In reality, poker is played much less frequently, but in the past, it was impossible to play it any other way.

So PokerioMokykla.com offers you a chance to relax and take a look at a slightly idealized face of poker, associated with high society and criminals. Serious men, smoking cigars and drinking whiskey at the tables, with a gun tucked away.

“PokerioMokykla.com” presents you with a list of recommended movies to watch, which are in one way or another related to poker, betting, or casinos.

We present to you the fifth part of poker-related movie suggestions.

Part I

Part II

Part III

Part IV

Kaleidoscope (1966)

IMDb rating: 6.0

A classic comedy with a classic poker image, where men in tuxedos smoke and play cards. For those who enjoy older films, “Kaleidoscope” will appeal in terms of cinematography.

This film involves deception and relationships with a woman, but the plot is definitely not similar to modern films about cheating at the poker table.

Croupier (1998)

IMDb rating: 7.2

A highly rated British film with an unconventional story. Jack is a writer who has to start working at a casino. He becomes a croupier and realizes that this life experience is worth a book. However, the engaging thriller features the usual deceptions of gambling houses and unexpectedly formed relationships.

“Croupier” is a serious psychological thriller that shows how a job can change everything in a person's life – their behavior, main occupation, relationships, and more.

The Cooler (2003)

IMDb rating: 7.0

A man accustomed to losing all his life meets a woman, and his life changes. This probably happens often in reality when love changes everything. Thus, Bernie Lootz's (known as “The Cooler”) behavior changes.

The entire action revolves around a somewhat outdated Las Vegas casino that is set to be demolished. However, his new love, Natalie, is determined to stop this and save the current workplace. Meanwhile, “The Cooler” does his job – trying to throw good gamblers off their game and make them lose.

A film with excellent acting, definitely not for children.

Shade (2003)

IMDb rating: 6.4

What poker movie would be complete without large sums of money and criminals? This one is no exception – three card aces try to take down a legendary figure in the field, with whom just meeting is a rare achievement.

However, events take a different turn, and it is revealed that the essence of this card game is deception, so events take a completely different direction.

“Shade” is considered one of the best poker movies of the 21st century, so for this reason alone, it is worth seeing and evaluating for yourself.

Runner Runner (2013)

IMDb rating: 5.6

An action film where everything revolves around dishonest gambling. A student who cannot pay for his studies is forced to gamble – using mathematical models, he plays online poker and does well until he is cheated. Upon discovering the deceit, he goes to meet the person who potentially cheated him.

The result – collaboration, big money, and the attention of law enforcement.

“Runner Runner” does not stand out with its plot – it is a simple action film with poker and luxury elements.