Poker in today's reality is not what it used to be. Or at least not as it is portrayed in the movies.
A computer, an additional monitor, and hours spent at home or any other place 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 break and 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.
This is just the first part of the suggestions, introducing you to the true classics of such films.
Rounders (1998)
IMDb rating: 7.4.
“Rounders” is often called one of the most underrated films.
Its story revolves around Mike (actor Matt Damon) – a law student who lost a large sum and quit playing poker. Mike is too immersed in this game, so he can't stay away from the poker table.
He is encouraged to return by his best friend who has just been released from prison. And everything starts anew.
This is probably the best film about poker, recommended for every poker enthusiast. It's better to watch it once than to read descriptions of this film a thousand times. The impressive cast includes actors like John Malkovich and Matt Damon.
Maverick (1994)
IMDb rating: 7.0.
Many are probably familiar with the film starring Mel Gibson. “Maverick” was nominated for an Oscar and remains popular to this day.
The film's story revolves around Bret Maverick, who lacks money for a poker tournament. With only a few days left, the main character has to win some money and collect a few debts. However, this often involves deceit.
To achieve his goals, B. Maverick teams up with a female thief who has the same goal as him.
Although this film is relatively new compared to others, it is probably the greatest classic – a western with women, guns, horses, poker, and money.
The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
IMDb rating: 7.3.
A true cinema classic, nominated for a Golden Globe.
In times when people bet on everything, gambling games flourished, and many wanted to prove they could compete with the best.
“The Cincinnati Kid” did just that, rising to the highest level, playing the highest stakes game against poker masters.
This is a film about poker, love, the rising fame of a player, and new victories.
A Big Hand for a Little Lady (1966)
IMDb rating: 7.4.
A comedy-western that would still be quite original in today's context. How else could it be when a man arrives at a high-stakes competition accompanied by his wife, but after a heart attack during the game, his wife has to take over the game?
As is typical for such films, the man aimed too high, so losing would mean huge debts. But this problem falls to his wife, who takes over his cards and place at the table.
This is a true classic of Western cinema.
Honeymoon in Vegas (1992)
IMDb rating: 5.8.
This is different from the films we mentioned earlier. In the comedy “Honeymoon in Vegas,” Jack Singer (actor Nicolas Cage) is preparing to get married, but before the wedding, he loses $65,000 at the poker table and has to clear the debt.
Luckily for him, a wealthy gambler offers to clear the debt in exchange for a weekend with his fiancée. All that's left is to agree, but the strength of jealousy forces the main character to take action.
This film is not centered around poker, but since everything is connected to Las Vegas, it will suit you perfectly. By the way, don't be misled by the low rating – comedies usually have lower ratings than more serious films.
