Good cinema requires three things above all: charismatic characters, a gripping plotline, and action that actually packs a punch. In order for a movie to really engage us, we need to care about what happens onscreen, which is why gambling scenes can work so well as part of the wider story.
Creating some compelling viewing, they’re the ultimate way to create a high-stakes scenario – one that, if it’s done well, will elicit real emotion from the viewer. With this in mind, here are four instances where filmmakers made the most of a little casino gameplay magic.
Ocean’s Eleven (2001)
Despite revolving around the glamorous world of casinos, Ocean’s Eleven and its follow-up films showed surprisingly little gambling, but one exception to this rule was in the first movie when all of the pivotal characters are brought together onscreen. Visually, the game itself might be relaxed, but the tension is palpable, with a major heist looming and the players each trying to outdo one another. As Brad Pitt goes head to head with George Clooney’s character, you can feel the intensity of the interaction in the very pit of your stomach, helping to perfectly set the scene for what’s to come.
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998)
If you’re looking for a scene that will have you on the edge of your seat, then Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels is another movie that you need to check out. The action comes during a high-stakes game of Three Card Brag when the characters of Fast Eddy and Hatchet Harry go up against one another. The money on the table keeps on rising: $20,000, then $30,000, then $50,000, all the way up to $500,000. You can feel the intensity rising as the numbers do, with the ever-increasing amounts making your toes curl. Luckily, those who want to roll the dice in real life don’t need to go so high – in fact, there are even some online casinos that allow you to play without wagering, meaning you have absolute control over your gambling and when you want to cash out.
Rounders (1998)
Rounders is a film that revolves around poker, so gambling is pivotal to it. That said, there’s one scene in particular that stands out from the rest. It depicts the final showdown between central character Michael McDermott and his ultimate opponent, a Russian player known as KGB. The stakes on the silver screen couldn’t be higher, with $10,000 of borrowed money on the table and a debt to be paid. As the scene progresses, you’ll find that you’re on tenterhooks waiting to see who comes out on top. It’s mind-bogglingly intense and absolutely brilliant cinema.
Cool Hand Luke (1967)
Cool Hand Luke might be over half a century old, but it remains a cinematic classic. Beloved by poker players everywhere, it shows the game in all of its glory, and its main character has become something of an icon for those who view bluffing as an art form. Starring Paul Newman as Luke, it has one scene in particular that is nail-biting to watch, arguably coming in as one of the most exciting gambling moments in the history of the silver screen. When the credits roll at the film’s close, you’ll forevermore aspire to be as cool and collected as the titular character.
Looking for some intense onscreen action to brighten up a boring Friday night? Then these are the films to watch. Add them to your list and get ready to enjoy gripping scenes and thrilling showdowns. You won’t be disappointed!