If you enjoyed the gripping drama and high-stakes world of 'Yonkers Joe' (2008), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same intensity, family dynamics, and thrilling undertones. Whether you're a fan of crime dramas, character-driven stories, or tales of redemption, this list has something for you.

The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
Description: A classic poker movie that pits a young gambler against a seasoned pro, capturing the tension and strategy of high-stakes games.
Fact: The film's climactic poker scene is often praised for its authenticity and suspense.


California Split (1974)
Description: A buddy film set in the world of gambling, it captures the highs and lows of betting, with a focus on the friendship between two gamblers.
Fact: The movie was one of the first to use an eight-track sound system, enhancing its immersive casino scenes.


Hard Eight (1996)
Description: A neo-noir film that follows a professional gambler who takes a young man under his wing, blending themes of mentorship and the darker side of casino life.
Fact: This was Paul Thomas Anderson's feature film debut, showcasing his early talent for character-driven stories.


Rounders (1998)
Description: Centered around high-stakes poker, this movie delves into the world of professional gambling, showcasing the tension, strategy, and personal stakes involved in the game.
Fact: The film has become a cult classic among poker enthusiasts and is often cited as an inspiration for many professional players.


Croupier (1998)
Description: This film offers a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a casino croupier, blending elements of crime and drama as he gets drawn into a risky scheme.
Fact: The movie's success helped revive Clive Owen's career, leading to more prominent roles in Hollywood.


Owning Mahowny (2003)
Description: Based on a true story, this film portrays the life of a bank manager who embezzles money to feed his gambling addiction, highlighting the destructive nature of compulsive betting.
Fact: The real-life events that inspired the movie involved one of the largest bank frauds in Canadian history.


The Cooler (2003)
Description: This film explores the gritty underbelly of casino life, focusing on a man whose bad luck is exploited to cool down winning streaks at the tables. It shares themes of redemption and the psychological toll of gambling.
Fact: The movie features a unique blend of romance and casino drama, with a standout performance that earned William H. Macy critical acclaim.


21 (2008)
Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a group of MIT students who use card counting to win big in Las Vegas, blending elements of heist and gambling genres.
Fact: The real-life team that inspired the movie won millions of dollars before being banned from casinos worldwide.


The Gambler (2014)
Description: This remake delves into the life of a literature professor with a severe gambling problem, examining the psychological and financial consequences of his addiction.
Fact: The screenplay was written by William Monahan, who also penned the script for 'The Departed.'


Mississippi Grind (2015)
Description: A road trip movie with gambling at its core, it explores the camaraderie and pitfalls of betting, as two men chase their luck across the South.
Fact: The film's soundtrack features a mix of blues and folk music, enhancing its Southern atmosphere.
