Gambling related movies in general and poker films in particular have a small but enthusiastic audience. This explains why even though there are not too many films dedicated to these genres, they are always entertaining and enjoy enduring popularity. Over the years, there were dozens of poker films released in Hollywood, but only a few have stood the test of time. The best of them had a positive impact on the gaming industry and brought more players into the fold by portraying poker in a positive light.
Casino Royale
Casino Royale was released at the perfect time for online poker & casino rooms to enjoy an influx of new punters. The website bingosites.net reported an influx of traffic on the movie premier. One of the top 007 films ever made, the Daniel Craig movie was also the first to replace baccarat with poker. It brought the popular game into the spotlight and made it look particularly exciting, as James Bond was dueling the Le Chiffre in a high-stakes game.
The amazing casino locations and the exciting story were enough to keep viewers at the edge of their seats. After the film ended, many were curious to learn more about the game and some even chose to open an account at online rooms. Looking back, the positive impact of Casino Royale upon the gaming industry was significant, as it led to a surge of new and enthusiastic online poker players.
Rounders
Matt Damon, Edward Norton and John Malkovich are such good actors that featuring them all in a film is a recipe for success. Rounders is a shining example of a classic poker move that is just as exciting to watch today as it was two decades ago. The story isn’t the most original ever told, but it is narrated in such a compelling manner that it keeps the audience excited and curious for what happens next.
Rounders is a poker film that doesn’t lack tension and adrenaline, while also painting an exciting picture of the popular game. Even though some fans have criticized it for its over-the-top and exaggerated way in which poker is portrayed, it did a huge service to the game. The story of the young and talented poker player who overcame a lot of adversity to beat the odds won the hearts and minds of moviegoers.
High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story
Life is quite often stranger than fiction and some of the most amazing stories are based on real people and events. High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story is such a poker move that is centered on the life and incredible achievements of Stu Ungar. An exceptional gin rummy player, he also won the WSOP twice and became the youngest winner of the main event.
The brilliant player was eventually brought down by his drug addiction, but even under the tremendous pressure of this affliction, his talent shone brightly. Those who love movies with a happy ending will probably be disappointed by High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story. However, this remains a must-watch classic film inspired by real life and serving as a cautionary tale for future generations.
