10 Must-Watch Biographical Films About Card Games

Description: This classic film follows the journey of a young poker player, Eric "The Kid" Stoner, as he challenges the legendary Lancey Howard in a high-stakes game. It's a must-watch for its portrayal of the poker scene in the 1930s.

Fact: Steve McQueen reportedly learned to play poker for this role, and the film was inspired by real-life poker player Nick "The Greek" Dandolos.

Description: While not solely about card games, "The Sting" features a memorable poker game and showcases the art of the con, making it a classic in the genre of gambling films.

Fact: The film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and the poker scene was meticulously planned to ensure authenticity.

Description: A light-hearted take on the card game genre, "Maverick" follows Bret Maverick, a charming gambler, as he tries to win a high-stakes poker tournament. It's a fun blend of comedy and card-playing action.

Fact: The film was inspired by the 1950s TV series of the same name, and Mel Gibson's character was based on the original Maverick, James Garner.

Description: A tale of friendship, gambling, and redemption, "Rounders" showcases the underground poker world and the lengths one will go to pay off debts. It's a film that has become a cult classic among poker enthusiasts.

Fact: The World Series of Poker was inspired by this movie, and many of the poker scenes were filmed in actual underground poker clubs.

Description: While not strictly about card games, "The Cooler" features a casino setting where the protagonist, Bernie Lootz, is known as a "cooler" who can change the luck of gamblers. It's a fascinating look at the behind-the-scenes of gambling.

Fact: The film was shot in the Riviera Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, which was later demolished in

Description: This James Bond film features a high-stakes poker game at the Casino Royale, where Bond must outwit Le Chiffre. It's a thrilling blend of espionage and card-playing strategy.

Fact: The poker game was designed by professional poker players, and the film marked Daniel Craig's debut as James Bond.

Description: Based on the true story of the MIT Blackjack Team, "21" follows a group of students who use card counting to win millions from casinos. It's a thrilling look at the world of blackjack and the strategies employed.

Fact: The real-life MIT Blackjack Team was banned from most casinos in Las Vegas, and the film's plot was inspired by the book "Bringing Down the House."

Description: Directed by Paul Schrader, this film follows a former military interrogator turned professional card player, exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and the strategic mind of a card player.

Fact: Oscar Isaac learned to play poker for his role, and the film was shot in various casinos to capture the authentic atmosphere.

Description: This remake of the 1974 film of the same name stars Mark Wahlberg as a literature professor with a gambling addiction, exploring the psychological aspects of gambling and the allure of card games.

Fact: The film features a real-life poker player, John Goodman, who plays a loan shark, adding authenticity to the gambling scenes.

Description: Based on the true story of Molly Bloom, who ran the world's most exclusive high-stakes poker game, this film explores her rise and fall in the gambling world, with a focus on the psychology of poker.

Fact: Aaron Sorkin, known for his fast-paced dialogue, wrote and directed this film, making it a unique blend of drama and poker strategy.