Welcome to our curated list of films that dive deep into the world of bartending. These movies not only showcase the art of mixology but also explore the lives, challenges, and triumphs of those who master the craft behind the bar. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast or just love a good story, these films offer a unique blend of drama, comedy, and romance, all served with a twist of cinematic flair.

The Lost Weekend (1945)
Description: While focusing on alcoholism, this film includes scenes in bars where the protagonist interacts with bartenders, highlighting the social aspect of drinking culture.
Fact: The film was groundbreaking for its realistic portrayal of alcoholism and won the Academy Award for Best Picture.


Cocktail (1988)
Description: This iconic film follows Brian Flanagan, a young man who aspires to be a successful businessman but finds his calling as a flair bartender. It's a mix of romance, ambition, and the high-energy world of bartending.
Fact: Tom Cruise performed most of his own stunts, including the famous bottle juggling scene. The movie inspired a generation of bartenders to take up flair bartending.


Coyote Ugly (2000)
Description: Violet Sanford moves to New York to pursue her dream of becoming a songwriter and ends up working at the Coyote Ugly Saloon, a bar known for its wild atmosphere and dancing bartenders.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life Coyote Ugly Saloon in New York City. The bar still exists and has become a tourist attraction.


The Rum Diary (2011)
Description: Johnny Depp stars as Paul Kemp, a journalist in 1960s Puerto Rico, who gets entangled in a world of rum, corruption, and bar life, showcasing the bartender's role in this chaotic environment.
Fact: The film is based on Hunter S. Thompson's novel of the same name. Johnny Depp was a close friend of Thompson and had long wanted to bring this story to the screen.


The Savages (2007)
Description: This drama includes scenes where the characters, dealing with family issues, find solace and conversation in bars, with bartenders playing a supportive role.
Fact: The film was critically acclaimed, earning Laura Linney an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.


The Hangover (2009)
Description: Although not centered on bartenders, the film features memorable scenes in bars and with bartenders, showcasing the wild side of Vegas nightlife.
Fact: The film was a surprise hit, spawning two sequels and becoming one of the highest-grossing R-rated comedies.


The World's End (2013)
Description: While not solely about bartending, this film features a pub crawl where the main characters, including a bartender, attempt to relive their youth, only to uncover an alien invasion.
Fact: The film is the third in Edgar Wright's "Three Flavours Cornetto" trilogy, following "Shaun of the Dead" and "Hot Fuzz."


The Great Gatsby (2013)
Description: Baz Luhrmann's adaptation features lavish parties with bartenders serving as the backdrop to the opulent world of Gatsby, highlighting the era's cocktail culture.
Fact: The film used over 100,000 bottles of champagne during the filming of the party scenes to create an authentic atmosphere.


The Iceman Cometh (1973)
Description: This adaptation of Eugene O'Neill's play features a bar setting where characters grapple with their illusions and despair, with the bartender playing a pivotal role in their lives.
Fact: The film features an ensemble cast including Lee Marvin, Fredric March, and Jeff Bridges. It was one of the longest plays ever adapted for film.


The Tender Bar (2021)
Description: Based on J.R. Moehringer's memoir, this film tells the story of a young man growing up in a bar, learning life lessons from his uncle, a charismatic bartender. It's a heartwarming tale of family, mentorship, and the bar as a second home.
Fact: George Clooney was initially considered for the role of Uncle Charlie before Ben Affleck was cast. The film was directed by George Clooney.
