If you enjoyed the thrilling casino drama and underdog story of 'Stacy's Knights' (1983), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same high-stakes tension, charismatic characters, and gripping narratives. Whether you're a fan of gambling-themed films or love rooting for the underdog, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Hustler (1961)
Description: A gritty drama centered around the world of high-stakes pool, showcasing the psychological and emotional toll of gambling and the pursuit of greatness.
Fact: The film was shot in real pool halls to capture the authentic atmosphere of the underground gambling scene.


The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
Description: A classic poker drama that pits a young, ambitious player against a seasoned veteran, focusing on the psychological battles and high-stakes tension.
Fact: The film's climactic poker game was shot in a single take to maintain the intensity and realism of the match.


California Split (1974)
Description: A buddy comedy-drama that captures the chaotic and unpredictable nature of gambling, blending humor with the harsh realities of addiction.
Fact: The movie was one of the first to use an eight-track sound system, enhancing the immersive experience of the casino scenes.


The Color of Money (1986)
Description: A sequel that delves into the mentorship and rivalry in the world of pool hustling, emphasizing the themes of redemption and the cost of ambition.
Fact: The movie features real-life professional pool players in cameo roles to add authenticity to the scenes.


Hard Eight (1996)
Description: A neo-noir crime drama set in the world of casinos and gambling, focusing on mentorship, loyalty, and the darker side of luck.
Fact: The film was originally a short titled 'Coffee and Cigarettes,' which was expanded into a feature-length movie.


Rounders (1998)
Description: A gripping tale of underground poker, highlighting the tension between personal relationships and the addictive allure of high-stakes gambling.
Fact: The poker scenes were meticulously choreographed to reflect real strategies used by professional players.


The Cooler (2003)
Description: A unique take on gambling luck and superstition, centered around a man whose mere presence brings bad luck to casino players, and his struggle to break free.
Fact: The film's concept was inspired by real-life casino employees known as 'coolers,' who are hired to disrupt winning streaks.


21 (2008)
Description: Based on a true story, this film explores the high-risk world of blackjack card counting, blending the thrill of gambling with the pressure of staying ahead of the casino.
Fact: The real MIT Blackjack Team members consulted on the film to ensure accuracy in the card counting techniques depicted.


The Gambler (2014)
Description: A dark exploration of addiction and self-destruction in the world of gambling, focusing on the protagonist's downward spiral and desperate attempts to regain control.
Fact: The film's script went through multiple revisions to balance the intense psychological drama with the fast-paced gambling sequences.


Molly's Game (2017)
Description: A biographical crime drama about the rise and fall of an underground poker empire, emphasizing the legal and personal consequences of high-stakes gambling.
Fact: The screenplay was adapted from Molly Bloom's memoir, which detailed her experiences running exclusive poker games for celebrities and wealthy elites.
