If you were captivated by the psychological intensity and raw emotion of 'Quit' (2010), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 gripping movies and shows that share similar themes of personal struggle, resilience, and emotional depth. Whether you're looking for another heart-wrenching drama or a thought-provoking character study, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

Casino (1995)
Description: A gritty, detailed portrayal of the casino industry's dark underbelly, filled with greed, power struggles, and betrayal. The lavish yet dangerous world it depicts resonates with the high-stakes tension of gambling.
Fact: The film's casino scenes were shot at the Riviera Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, which was still operational at the time. Many real-life mobsters were consulted for authenticity.


Hard Eight (1996)
Description: A neo-noir drama about a seasoned gambler mentoring a younger man, exploring themes of loyalty and redemption. The film's atmospheric tension and focus on casino life reflect the highs and lows of gambling.
Fact: This was Paul Thomas Anderson's feature-length directorial debut. The original title was 'Sydney,' after Philip Baker Hall's character.


Rounders (1998)
Description: Centers on the underground world of high-stakes poker, blending strategy, deception, and personal struggle. The film captures the allure and danger of gambling, much like the high-risk, high-reward lifestyle of its characters.
Fact: The movie helped popularize Texas Hold'em poker in the late 1990s. Many professional poker players cite it as an inspiration for entering the game.


Croupier (1998)
Description: A noir-inspired tale about a writer working as a casino croupier, drawn into a world of deceit and danger. The film's detached, observational style mirrors the calculated precision of gambling.
Fact: Clive Owen's performance as the croupier revived his career, leading to bigger roles. The movie was shot in just 20 days on a modest budget.


Owning Mahowny (2003)
Description: A true-story drama about a bank manager who embezzles millions to feed his gambling addiction. The film's slow-burning tension and focus on obsession align closely with the psychological toll of compulsive gambling.
Fact: The real-life Dan Mahowny lost over $10 million in just 18 months. The film was shot in Toronto but set in Atlantic City and Las Vegas.


The Cooler (2003)
Description: A unique take on luck and superstition in casinos, where a 'cooler' is hired to jinx winning streaks. The film's blend of romance and casino mythology highlights the unpredictable nature of gambling.
Fact: William H. Macy's character was inspired by real-life casino employees known for their 'unlucky' aura. The film's soundtrack features classic Vegas-style lounge music.


21 (2008)
Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a group of MIT students who use card-counting techniques to win big in Las Vegas. The blend of intellect, risk, and moral ambiguity parallels the calculated yet perilous nature of gambling.
Fact: The real-life team the movie is based on won millions of dollars before being banned from casinos. The film's blackjack scenes were choreographed by actual card counters.


The Card Counter (2021)
Description: A somber character study of a gambler with a dark past, blending poker strategy with existential dread. The film's introspective tone and focus on guilt and redemption align with the psychological weight of gambling.
Fact: Oscar Isaac learned to count cards for the role, though the skill isn't prominently featured. The script was written specifically with Isaac in mind.


The Gambler (2014)
Description: A gripping drama about a literature professor with a severe gambling addiction, exploring themes of self-destruction, risk, and redemption. The high-stakes tension and psychological depth mirror the intense emotional journey of a compulsive gambler.
Fact: The film is a remake of the 1974 movie of the same name, starring James Caan. Mark Wahlberg prepared for the role by studying real-life gambling addicts.


Mississippi Grind (2015)
Description: A road-trip drama about two gamblers chasing a big score, blending luck, friendship, and self-discovery. The film's melancholic yet hopeful tone mirrors the emotional rollercoaster of gambling.
Fact: The movie was partially inspired by the 1974 film 'California Split.' Much of the gambling footage was improvised to capture authentic reactions.
