Top 10 Documentaries on Gambling

Description: While a narrative film, it's based on the true story of Jordan Belfort, whose life of excess and gambling with investors' money led to his eventual downfall. It's included for its depiction of financial gambling.

Fact: The film was directed by Martin Scorsese and is based on Belfort's memoir.

Description: This film chronicles the rise and fall of Enron, a company whose executives gambled with the company's future, leading to one of the largest corporate bankruptcies in history.

Fact: The documentary is based on the book by Bethany McLean and Peter Elkind.

Description: This documentary delves into the life of lobbyist Jack Abramoff, whose gambling on political influence led to one of the biggest political scandals in U.S. history. It's a cautionary tale of how gambling with power can lead to downfall.

Fact: The film was directed by Alex Gibney, who also directed "Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room."

Description: This film explains the complex financial instruments that led to the 2008 housing market crash, focusing on the few who bet against the market. It's included for its portrayal of financial gambling on a grand scale.

Fact: The film was nominated for five Academy Awards, winning Best Adapted Screenplay.

Description: This film investigates the global financial crisis of 2008, showing how financial institutions gambled with the economy, leading to widespread economic disaster.

Fact: It won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: Although a narrative film, it's based on real-life gambling addiction, focusing on a literature professor with a gambling problem. It's included for its realistic portrayal of gambling's psychological impact.

Fact: The film is a remake of the 1974 film of the same name, starring James Caan.

Description: This film follows Jackie Siegel, the wife of billionaire David Siegel, as they attempt to build the largest private home in America, only to face financial ruin due to the 2008 financial crisis. It's a poignant look at the gambling nature of real estate and wealth.

Fact: The film was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance Film Festival and was initially intended to be a light-hearted look at wealth.

Description: This documentary explores the controversial practices of Herbalife, a multi-level marketing company accused of being a pyramid scheme, and the battle between hedge fund manager Bill Ackman and the company's CEO. It's included for its deep dive into financial gambling and the risks involved in betting against a company.

Fact: The film was directed by Ted Braun, who also directed "Darfur Now." It premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival.

Description: While not a traditional documentary, this TV series captures the essence of high-stakes poker games, featuring some of the world's best players. It's included for its raw portrayal of the gambling mindset and strategy.

Fact: The show was created by Henry Orenstein, who also invented the hole cam, allowing viewers to see players' cards.

Description: This documentary examines the War on Drugs in America, which can be seen as a form of societal gambling with lives and futures. It's included for its exploration of risk-taking and the consequences of policy decisions.

Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.