If you're a fan of both the nail-biting suspense of thrillers and the strategic allure of billiards, then this collection of films is tailored just for you. These movies blend the high-stakes world of pool halls with the tension of a good thriller, offering a unique cinematic experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat. From psychological mind games to high-stakes gambling, these films showcase the darker side of the green felt.
The Hustler (1961)
Description: This classic film follows the journey of "Fast Eddie" Felson, a pool shark who challenges the legendary Minnesota Fats in a high-stakes game, leading to a thrilling battle of wits and skill.
Fact: Paul Newman reprised his role as Eddie Felson in the sequel "The Color of Money" in 1986, for which he won an Academy Award for Best Actor.
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The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
Description: Although primarily about poker, this film features a memorable pool game that sets the stage for the high-stakes gambling and psychological warfare that follows.
Fact: Steve McQueen, who plays the titular character, was known for his love of gambling and was an avid pool player in real life.
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The Color of Money (1986)
Description: A sequel to "The Hustler," this film sees Eddie Felson returning to the pool scene to mentor a young, brash player, leading to a series of intense matches and personal revelations.
Fact: Tom Cruise learned to play pool for this film, and his character's name, Vincent Lauria, was inspired by real-life pool player Vincent "The Chin" Gigante.
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The Player (1992)
Description: While not exclusively about billiards, this Robert Altman film includes a pivotal scene where characters discuss a screenplay idea involving a pool shark, adding a layer of meta-thriller to the narrative.
Fact: The film famously opens with an 8-minute single take, showcasing the inner workings of Hollywood.
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The Great White Hype (1996)
Description: Although focused on boxing, this film includes a subplot involving a pool shark, adding a layer of gambling and manipulation to the sports comedy-drama.
Fact: The film features Samuel L. Jackson as a fast-talking promoter, showcasing his comedic chops.
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The Racketeer (1929)
Description: An early talkie, this film features a pool shark who uses his skills to swindle others, leading to a suspenseful narrative about crime and redemption.
Fact: This film is one of the earliest examples of a billiard-themed thriller, showcasing the genre's roots.
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The Bank Shot (1974)
Description: While primarily a heist comedy, this film includes a pool hall scene where the characters plan their next move, blending humor with the tension of a heist.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by Donald E. Westlake, known for his Dortmunder series of crime capers.
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Stickmen (2001)
Description: This New Zealand film revolves around three friends who get involved in a high-stakes pool game, leading to a thrilling adventure filled with deceit and danger.
Fact: The film was shot in various pool halls around New Zealand, giving it an authentic feel of the local pool scene.
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Poolhall Junkies (2002)
Description: This film dives into the gritty underworld of pool hustling, where a young prodigy must navigate through betrayal, revenge, and high-stakes games to reclaim his life.
Fact: The film features real-life pool players like Johnny Archer and Mike Massey, adding authenticity to the pool scenes.
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The Hustler of Money (1998)
Description: This lesser-known film follows a pool hustler who gets entangled in a dangerous game of pool and gambling, leading to a thrilling climax.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations in Las Vegas, capturing the city's vibrant gambling culture.
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