After a long day and an even longer week, you only want to sit back, relax, and watch a good movie on Netflix. Now, most of us go for the new releases. Nothing wrong with that; it’s just that everything seems to be a sequel of a sequel nowadays or an overhyped CGI-filled superhero blockbuster today. Makes you wonder, what happened to actual acting? Well, don’t go for the newest movies the next time you open Netflix. Search by genre, and you might find something you missed or watched ages ago worth rewatching.
Take Vegas-themed movies, for example. The nineties and the early 2000s had this obsession with casino movies, usually featuring one or a team of con artists and brilliant math brains on their mission to take over the greatest casino in town.
Sounds familiar? Well, if you’re a fan of thrilling stories, high-stakes gambling, and the glamorous world of casinos, you’re in luck! Netflix offers a variety of captivating movies that take you deep into the heart of the casino world. Besides, Netflix doesn’t show only new movies. Let’s explore a selection of five casino movies that might even be considered oldies today. You know what they say – oldies but goldies.
“Rounders” (1998)
In our humble opinion, it’s really unfair that this movie is not more popular. It definitely deserves to be.
Featuring Matt Damon and Edward Norton, “Rounders” takes us to the underground world of high-stakes poker. The film revolves around a talented poker player who tries to balance his passion for the game with his responsibilities in the real world.
The movie is compelling because it shows different angles of gambling. If you have ever played a game or two in a casino or enjoyed online poker at platforms like Ignition online casino, you will understand the beauty of this movie and maybe take some inspiration from it.
With its authentic depiction of the poker scene, strategic gameplay, and compelling performances, “Rounders” has become a cult favorite among poker enthusiasts and movie buffs.
“Casino” (1995)
Now this is a classic if we ever saw one. It has it all. Directed by Martin Scorsese, starring Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone, it screams classic. Not so much an easy watch, this is a film that delves into the dark and turbulent world of Las Vegas casinos.
It’s a crime drama that follows the story of a casino executive and his mafia connections. With its gritty portrayal of the casino industry, intense performances, and gripping narrative, “Casino” is a must-watch for any casino movie enthusiast.
We highly recommend it. Just look at the cast!
“21” (2008)
Did you know that this movie was based on a true story? Oh yeah, “21” follows a group of MIT students who devise an intricate card-counting system to win big at blackjack in Las Vegas.
Starring Jim Sturgess and Kevin Spacey, this thrilling drama explores the temptations and risks involved in pursuing fortune.
With its blend of suspense, intellect, and an engaging storyline, “21” provides an exciting glimpse into the world of professional gamblers and the dangers that come with the lifestyle. It’s like a cautionary tale for the Icarus in all of us.
“The Gambler” (2014)
In this remake of the 1974 film of the same name, Mark Wahlberg portrays a brilliant literature professor with a dangerous gambling addiction. As his life spirals out of control, he becomes entangled with loan sharks and finds himself in high-stakes gambling situations.
“The Gambler” offers a raw and intense portrayal of the psychological turmoil accompanying addiction and the casino world’s high-risk nature.
Not an easy Friday night watch, but a compelling movie promising to keep you guessing until the end.
“Ocean’s Eleven” (2001)
If you haven’t seen this movie, what are you even doing here? It has it all. The glitz, the glamour, the romance, a brilliant cast. While not solely focused on casinos, “Ocean’s Eleven” is a stylish and entertaining heist film set in Las Vegas.
Directed by Steven Soderbergh and featuring an all-star ensemble cast including George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Julia Roberts, the movie follows a group of professional criminals as they attempt to pull off a casino robbery to put all others to shame.
With its slick cinematography, witty dialogue, and clever plot twists, “Ocean’s Eleven” combines the allure of casinos with an exciting heist narrative. And it’s still relevant over twenty years later. It’s a household title.
If you’re in the mood for captivating casino stories, these five movies on Netflix should be on your watchlist. Remember: a movie doesn’t have to be new to be amazing! Go dig deeper and enjoy your exploration of movies to watch this upcoming weekend.
