10 Must-Watch Drama Films Set in Las Vegas

Description: This film, while not set entirely in Vegas, features a pivotal road trip to the city where the protagonist learns about his autistic brother's savant abilities, leading to a dramatic exploration of family, understanding, and personal growth.

Fact: Dustin Hoffman won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Raymond Babbitt. The film was inspired by the real-life story of Kim Peek, a savant.

Description: This biographical drama tells the story of Bugsy Siegel, the gangster who envisioned and helped build the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas, blending historical drama with the city's origin story.

Fact: Warren Beatty won a Golden Globe for Best Actor for his portrayal of Bugsy Siegel. The film was nominated for 10 Academy Awards.

Description: This epic tale of greed, betrayal, and the mob's influence in Las Vegas is a must-watch for anyone interested in the city's darker side. The film follows Sam "Ace" Rothstein, a meticulous casino manager, and his tumultuous relationship with his wife, Ginger, and best friend, Nicky Santoro.

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

Description: A poignant exploration of love and self-destruction, this film follows a screenwriter who moves to Vegas to drink himself to death, only to find an unexpected connection with a prostitute. It's a raw, emotional journey through the city's seedy underbelly.

Fact: Nicolas Cage won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Ben Sanderson. The film was shot in just 28 days.

Description: While not a traditional drama, this film captures the essence of Vegas nightlife and the struggle of young actors trying to make it big. It's a mix of comedy and drama, showcasing the city's allure and the loneliness that can come with it.

Fact: Jon Favreau wrote the screenplay based on his own experiences in Los Angeles. The film helped launch the careers of both Favreau and Vince Vaughn.

Description: Based on Hunter S. Thompson's novel, this film is a wild, psychedelic journey through the drug-fueled underbelly of Vegas, exploring themes of the American Dream and its disillusionment.

Fact: Johnny Depp and director Terry Gilliam were both friends with Thompson, and Depp even lived with him to prepare for the role. The film was shot in and around Las Vegas.

Description: While more of a heist film, it's steeped in the drama of planning and executing a casino robbery in Vegas. The film captures the city's allure and the high stakes of gambling with one's future.

Fact: The Bellagio, Mirage, and MGM Grand were all used for filming, with the Bellagio's fountains becoming iconic in the movie's opening scene.

Description: Set in a fictional Vegas casino, this film tells the story of a "cooler," whose bad luck is used to dampen the winning streaks of gamblers. However, when he falls in love, his luck changes, leading to a series of dramatic events.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Alec Baldwin. The casino scenes were shot at the Riviera Hotel and Casino.

Description: Although primarily a comedy, this film delves into the chaos and misadventures that can occur in Vegas, providing a dramatic backdrop to the comedic elements. It's a story of friendship, loss, and the unexpected turns life can take.

Fact: The film was shot at Caesars Palace, and the suite where much of the action takes place was specifically designed for the movie. It became one of the highest-grossing R-rated comedies of all time.

Description: Mark Wahlberg stars as a literature professor with a gambling addiction, whose life spirals out of control in Las Vegas. The film explores themes of addiction, redemption, and the high stakes of gambling.

Fact: The film is a remake of the 1974 film of the same name, which starred James Caan. It was shot in various locations in Las Vegas, including the Bellagio.