Poker isn't just a game of cards; it's a battleground of wits, deception, and high stakes. This curated list of poker thriller movies will take you on a rollercoaster ride through the intense world of gambling, where every hand could mean life or death, fortune or ruin. Whether you're a poker aficionado or just love a good thriller, these films offer a unique blend of suspense, strategy, and the raw human drama that unfolds at the poker table.

The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
Description: Set in the 1930s, this film pits a young poker prodigy against the legendary "The Man," in a high-stakes game that could make or break his career. It's a timeless tale of ambition and the poker table as a metaphor for life.
Fact: The film was remade in 1996 as "The Gambler," but the original remains a classic.


Maverick (1994)
Description: A light-hearted take on poker, this film follows Bret Maverick, a charming gambler, as he tries to win a high-stakes poker tournament to fund his dreams. It's a fun, adventurous ride with poker at its heart.
Fact: The film features a cameo by the original "Maverick" TV series star, James Garner.


Rounders (1998)
Description: This film dives deep into the underground world of high-stakes poker, following a law student who returns to the game to help his friend pay off a debt. It's a classic tale of redemption, risk, and the allure of the poker table.
Fact: Matt Damon and Edward Norton learned to play poker for their roles, and the film has become a cult classic among poker enthusiasts.


The Cooler (2003)
Description: In this film, a "cooler" in a Las Vegas casino, whose mere presence can jinx gamblers, falls in love, and his luck changes, affecting the casino's bottom line. Poker plays a significant role in the casino's operations.
Fact: William H. Macy received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role.


Casino Royale (2006)
Description: While primarily a James Bond film, it features a pivotal poker game where Bond must outplay a terrorist financier. The tension at the poker table is palpable, making it a thrilling addition to this list.
Fact: The poker scenes were meticulously crafted, with real poker players advising on the game's authenticity.


The Card Counter (2021)
Description: A former military interrogator turned professional poker player seeks redemption by teaching a young man how to play poker, all while planning a heist. This film intertwines poker with themes of guilt, revenge, and personal transformation.
Fact: The film was directed by Paul Schrader, known for his work on "Taxi Driver," and features Oscar Isaac in a compelling performance.


The Gambler (2014)
Description: Mark Wahlberg stars as a literature professor with a gambling addiction who gets entangled in the dangerous world of underground poker. The film explores themes of addiction, risk, and the psychological allure of gambling.
Fact: This is a remake of the 1974 film of the same name, but with a modern twist.


Molly's Game (2017)
Description: Based on a true story, this film follows Molly Bloom, an Olympic skier who runs the world's most exclusive high-stakes poker game, attracting celebrities, athletes, and mobsters. It's a thrilling journey through the highs and lows of running an underground poker empire.
Fact: Jessica Chastain was nominated for a Golden Globe for her portrayal of Molly Bloom.


Shade (2003)
Description: A group of professional card players orchestrate a heist during a high-stakes poker game, but things go awry when trust is broken. This film delves into the darker side of poker with its intricate plot and character dynamics.
Fact: The film features a strong ensemble cast including Sylvester Stallone, Gabriel Byrne, and Jamie Foxx.


The Grand (2007)
Description: A mockumentary-style film about a poker tournament where the winner takes all, featuring a mix of professional and amateur players. It's a comedic look at the poker world with plenty of twists and turns.
Fact: The film was improvised, with actors given character outlines but no script.
