Casinos have offered an exciting background for many blockbuster movies, and for good reason. The thrill and high stakes of a room full of gamblers and risk takers is the perfect setting to set up some conflict with some big personality characters, and these films have proved incredibly popular with audiences over the years, capturing the glamour and suspense with dynamic stories and action-packed films.

Whether you’re a casino film connoisseur or you’re just looking to start exploring, there are plenty of thrilling gambling movies to go around.

Casino (1995)

Starting off with a film that deserves to be first on this list. As the name might suggest, “Casino” is a crime drama film set around casinos, directed by the one and only Martin Scorsese, and starring the fantastic Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone. In this film, the casino games featured on the silver screen vary, but the drama is maintained. Poker and roulette are two of the most popular activities that we see characters delve into, however, other traditional casino games like blackjack also make frequent appearances.

Set against the gritty backdrop of Vegas in 1970s and 80s, the film tells the story of Sam “Ace” Rothstein, a Jewish-American sports handicapper who is sent to run the Tangiers Casino for the mafia. With his old friend and enforcer Nicky Santoro by his side, Rothstein transforms the casino into a profitable business, but his success is threatened by his tumultuous relationship with his ex-prostitute wife Ginger.

The film is action packed, but with great characters, and a gritty and intense portrayal of the corruption and violence that fueled the rise of the Las Vegas casino industry.

The Sting (1973)

Widely regarded as one of the greatest films of all time, winning seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, “The Sting” is a must see for any cinema lover, heist enthusiast or not.

Set in 1936, the classic crime comedy directed by George Roy Hill, starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford, the story follows two con artists who plan an elaborate scam to avenge the death of a mutual friend by a powerful gangster. The plot involves setting up a fake betting parlour and luring the gangster into betting a large sum of money on a rigged horse race. The film is famous for its intricate plot twists, charming characters, and stylish 1930s setting making it a pleasure to watch.

Rounders (1998)

“Rounders” is a highly acclaimed drama film directed by John Dahl, starring Matt Damon and the formidable Edward Norton.

The movie follows the story of a law student and reformed gambler named Mike McDermott, who finds himself drawn back into the world of high-stakes underground poker after his friend Worm is released from prison. As they try to pay off Worm’s debts and avoid trouble with dangerous loan sharks, McDermott uses his skill and knowledge of the game to outwit his opponents and try to win big.

The film is a gripping and intense portrayal of the high-stakes world of poker, and it’s easy to understand why it is a favourite among fans of the game.

Ocean’s Eleven (2001)

Possibly one of the most famous franchises out there, dominating the heist genre is “Ocean’s Eleven”.  Adorned with huge stars like George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon, this movie is about a group of thieves who plan to rob three Las Vegas casinos at the same time, pulling off one of the largest heists of all time in this film’s universe.

With four films now under the Ocean’s umbrella, it’s clear that there is room in this genre for expansion, and a lot of avid fans hungry for more.

Rain Man (1988)

An absolute diamond of 1980’s cinema, “Rain Man” is a drama directed by Barry Levinson, starring Dustin Hoffman and Hollywood A-lister, Tom Cruise.

Following the story of Charlie Babbitt, a self-centred and materialistic car dealer, he discovers that his estranged father has left his entire fortune to his autistic older brother Raymond. As Charlie sets out on a road trip with Raymond to try to gain control of the inheritance, he begins to understand and appreciate his brother’s unique abilities and perspective on the world.

The film is a heartwarming and thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between two very different brothers, and for that, has earned its spot as an acclaimed and well loved movie.

The Cincinnati Kid (1965)

The oldest film on this list, and it has definitely earned its spot.

Throughout the film, we follow the story of Eric “The Kid” Stoner, a talented young poker player who seeks to establish himself as the best in the game by challenging veteran player, Lancey “The Man” Howard. The two men face off in a high-stakes game of poker, as the tension and drama creepy towards a thrilling climax. The film is a great and classic example of powerful performances, dynamic camerawork, and memorable characters.

Casino Royale (2006)

Frequently referred to as the best Daniel Craig James Bond film – and for good reason, directed by Martin Campbell and starring Daniel Craig, this movie is the first in the rebooted efforts of the James Bond franchise and follows Bond as he tries to bankrupt a terrorist financier in a high-stakes poker game.

Supported by MI6, James must keep his wits about him around the poker table, decoding bluffs and dodging bullets all in the same thrilling film.