Top 10 Poker Detective Movies

Description: Set in the 1930s, this film features Steve McQueen as a young poker player challenging the legendary "The Man" in a high-stakes game. The plot weaves through the underbelly of New Orleans, with elements of detective work as the Kid tries to uncover his opponent's weaknesses.

Fact: The film was based on the novel "The Cincinnati Kid" by Richard Jessup, and it was one of the first movies to show poker in such detail.

Description: While not strictly a detective film, "Maverick" involves a poker tournament where the protagonist, Bret Maverick, must solve various mysteries to secure his entry. The film combines comedy, adventure, and the strategic mind games of poker.

Fact: The film was inspired by the 1950s TV series of the same name, and Mel Gibson improvised many of his lines.

Description: This film follows Mike McDermott, a law student and poker prodigy, as he dives back into the high-stakes poker world to help his friend pay off a gambling debt. The movie showcases the underground poker scene and the detective-like skills needed to outwit opponents.

Fact: Matt Damon learned poker for the role, and the film's script was inspired by real-life poker players and their stories.

Description: Although focused on casino games, "Croupier" involves a writer working as a croupier who gets entangled in a heist. His observational skills and detective-like approach to understanding people make this film a unique addition.

Fact: Clive Owen's performance was critically acclaimed, and the film helped launch his career in Hollywood.

Description: While primarily a romance, "The Cooler" involves a casino employee whose bad luck affects gamblers. The plot thickens with elements of crime and detective work as he navigates the casino's underworld.

Fact: William H. Macy was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role.

Description: Eric Bana plays Huck Cheever, a talented poker player with a complicated relationship with his father, a poker legend. The film explores the detective-like strategies needed to win at poker and in life.

Fact: The film was shot during the World Series of Poker, providing an authentic backdrop.

Description: Oscar Isaac stars as William Tell, a former military interrogator turned professional poker player, who uses his skills to uncover a conspiracy. The film blends poker strategy with a detective-like investigation into past crimes.

Fact: The film was written and directed by Paul Schrader, known for his work on "Taxi Driver."

Description: Mark Wahlberg plays Jim Bennett, a literature professor with a gambling addiction. His journey involves detective-like tactics to outsmart loan sharks and high-stakes poker games, making this film a modern take on the genre.

Fact: The film is a remake of the 1974 film of the same name, with Wahlberg's character originally portrayed by James Caan.

Description: A group of professional card sharps engage in a high-stakes poker game where every player has a hidden agenda. The film delves into the art of cheating and the detective work needed to catch the cheaters.

Fact: The film features an ensemble cast including Sylvester Stallone, Gabriel Byrne, and Jamie Foxx, all playing poker experts.

Description: This mockumentary-style film follows a group of poker players at a tournament where the stakes are high, and the players' backstories are as intriguing as the game itself. It's a comedic take on poker with detective-like elements.

Fact: The film features an ensemble cast of comedians, including Woody Harrelson and David Cross.