If you enjoyed the gripping suspense and high-stakes drama of 'Martingale' (2024), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that deliver the same adrenaline-pumping thrills, intricate plots, and unforgettable characters. Whether you're a fan of psychological thrillers or action-packed narratives, this list will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
Description: A classic poker drama set in the 1930s, focusing on a young gambler's quest to prove himself against a legendary player, embodying the tension and psychology of high-stakes games.
Fact: Steve McQueen's performance is considered one of his best. The final poker showdown was praised for its realism and intensity.


Hard Eight (1996)
Description: A noir-style drama about a seasoned gambler mentoring a younger man, exploring themes of luck, mentorship, and the darker side of casino life.
Fact: Paul Thomas Anderson's debut feature film. The movie was originally titled 'Sydney' and was re-edited after its initial screening at Cannes.


Rounders (1998)
Description: A gripping drama centered around high-stakes poker, exploring themes of risk, addiction, and the allure of the underground gambling world.
Fact: The film's poker scenes were so realistic that professional players often use it as a teaching tool. Matt Damon and Edward Norton trained with poker experts to perfect their gameplay.


Owning Mahowny (2003)
Description: A chilling true story of a bank manager who embezzles millions to feed his gambling addiction, portraying the devastating spiral of compulsive betting.
Fact: Based on the real-life story of Brian Molony, who stole $10 million from his bank. Philip Seymour Hoffman's performance was critically acclaimed for its authenticity.


The Cooler (2003)
Description: A unique take on gambling luck and superstition, following a man whose mere presence can jinx winning streaks at a casino, exploring themes of fate and redemption.
Fact: William H. Macy's performance earned him an Academy Award nomination. The film's concept of a 'cooler' is based on real casino superstitions.


Casino Royale (2006)
Description: A high-octane spy thriller with a pivotal high-stakes poker game at its core, blending tension, strategy, and the allure of risk-taking.
Fact: This was Daniel Craig's first appearance as James Bond. The poker scenes were meticulously designed to be as authentic as possible, with input from professional players.


21 (2008)
Description: Based on a true story, this film delves into the world of card counting and the high-risk, high-reward nature of casino gambling, blending strategy with personal drama.
Fact: The real-life MIT Blackjack Team, which the movie is based on, won millions of dollars from casinos worldwide. The film's blackjack scenes were choreographed by professional players.


The Gambler (2014)
Description: A dark and intense portrayal of a literature professor with a crippling gambling addiction, highlighting the psychological toll and destructive consequences of compulsive betting.
Fact: The screenplay was inspired by the 1974 film of the same name. Mark Wahlberg prepared for the role by studying the behaviors of real gambling addicts.


Mississippi Grind (2015)
Description: A road movie centered around two gamblers chasing luck and redemption, capturing the highs and lows of gambling with a mix of humor and pathos.
Fact: The film was shot in multiple real-life casinos across the South. Ryan Reynolds and Ben Mendelsohn improvised many of their scenes to enhance authenticity.


Molly's Game (2017)
Description: A fast-paced biographical drama about the rise and fall of an underground poker empire, showcasing the glamour and danger of high-stakes gambling.
Fact: The film is based on the memoir of Molly Bloom, who ran one of the most exclusive poker games in Hollywood. Aaron Sorkin's screenplay was his directorial debut.
