The Best Poker Movies of All Time: From Classics to Hidden Gems

Poker is an exciting and unpredictable game that presents significant logical and psychological challenges. Success requires not only talent but also dedication and perseverance, while the element of luck can lead to dramatic twists—great triumphs and crushing defeats. Although poker provides excellent material for films, few truly outstanding movies have been made on the subject.

In the following list, we have compiled the best poker movies, considering both their popularity and artistic value.

The gold standard of modern poker films, Rounders has inspired countless players, especially during the poker boom of the 2000s. Matt Damon delivers a convincing performance as the talented and responsible Mike McDermott, while Edward Norton’s character, the cunning “Worm,” provides the perfect counterbalance. The film's atmosphere—capturing the dark, smoke-filled world of New York’s underground poker clubs—along with John Malkovich’s iconic portrayal of Teddy KGB, has cemented Rounders as a cult classic among poker players.

A Steve McQueen classic that showcases one of the most memorable poker showdowns in film history. The story revolves around a young, talented player facing off against a seasoned veteran, where not only the cards but also the psychological battle play a decisive role. Set against the backdrop of 1930s New Orleans, the film’s tense atmosphere, high-stakes drama, and Edward G. Robinson’s iconic performance have all contributed to The Cincinnati Kid becoming a timeless classic among poker films.

Featuring a powerful performance by Jessica Chastain, this film tells the story of how Molly Bloom built her own poker empire while gradually crossing the line of legality. Molly’s Game captures not only the thrill of high-stakes poker but also the tension of Bloom’s entanglements with the underworld and the FBI, making it a gripping and intense drama.

A compelling character drama about gambling addiction and the darker side of the poker world. Ben Mendelsohn plays a debt-ridden gambler who embarks on a high-stakes poker road trip with a charismatic and seemingly lucky new acquaintance, played by Ryan Reynolds. The film offers a realistic portrayal of the emotional depths of losing streaks and the compulsive urge to win, while providing an authentic glimpse into the poker lifestyle.

While not a traditional poker movie, Casino Royale features Texas Hold’em as a central plot element, with James Bond attempting to bring down his opponent, Le Chiffre, in a high-stakes game. The film dramatizes the tactical battle at the poker table in a visually striking way, though the actual gameplay is exaggerated and lacks realism for seasoned players. Nevertheless, the intense poker scenes have become iconic, contributing to the mainstream popularity of Texas Hold’em.

Robert Altman’s classic explores the friendship between two gamblers who become increasingly immersed in the world of poker and sports betting. Starring Elliott Gould and George Segal, the film features naturalistic, improvisation-infused performances that authentically depict the addictive nature of gambling. With its realistic portrayal and laid-back style, California Split is widely regarded as one of the best gambling films ever made.

A lighthearted, humorous Western adventure that doesn’t aim for realism but presents the world of poker in an entertaining way. Mel Gibson stars as the cunning and unpredictable Bret Maverick, who tries to secure a seat in a high-stakes poker tournament while overcoming various obstacles. Jodie Foster and James Garner provide excellent support in a film filled with bluffs, unexpected twists, and witty banter. The blend of comedy, classic Western elements, and poker makes Maverick a unique and enjoyable poker movie.

A story about a professional poker player striving to qualify for the World Series of Poker Main Event while battling his personal demons. Eric Bana plays a talented but self-destructive player who must prove himself in the shadow of his father, a legendary poker champion played by Robert Duvall. Filmed on real locations with appearances by numerous professional players, the film captures an authentic poker atmosphere. However, its primary focus is on character drama rather than the deeper strategic aspects of the game.

A lesser-known thriller centered around professional card cheats who attempt to outplay the legendary “Dean” (Sylvester Stallone) in a high-stakes poker game. The film delves into the world of underground poker games, showcasing masterful manipulations and deception. While not widely recognized, Shade offers an exciting and twist-filled experience for fans of the genre.

A biographical film about the legendary poker player Stu Ungar, exploring the dramatic contrast between his incredible talent and self-destructive lifestyle. Portrayed by Michael Imperioli, Ungar dominates the poker world with his extraordinary memory and genius-level gameplay, but his addictions and personal struggles ultimately lead to tragedy. The film provides an authentic glimpse into the career of the WSOP champion while also portraying the ruthless and often lonely side of professional poker.

An intriguing cinematic experiment—an improvised comedy set within a real poker tournament. While the actors portray predefined characters, the hands played are real, and the outcome of the game is unscripted. Woody Harrelson stars as a washed-up poker player trying to seize his last chance at a big win. The film takes a lighthearted and satirical approach, humorously reflecting on the unique personalities within the poker world and the quirks of the industry.

A documentary about the poker boom era and the game's rise to global prominence in the modern age. It explores how poker became widely popular with the advent of online platforms and televised broadcasts. Featuring insights from well-known professional players and industry figures, the film revisits poker's golden age while also examining the impact of the U.S. online poker ban (Black Friday) on the poker community and industry.

A film that explores the mentor-student relationship between a seasoned, retired poker player (Burt Reynolds) and a young, ambitious talent. The story focuses on generational differences as well as the strategic and psychological aspects of poker. While it doesn’t reach the heights of the genre’s best films, Reynolds' charisma and the poker-centric narrative make it an intriguing choice for fans of the game.

One of Jennifer Lawrence’s early standout performances in a gritty drama depicting a young girl’s troubled childhood. Despite its title, poker serves only as a background element, as the film primarily focuses on the protagonist’s family struggles and personal hardships.

A thriller exploring the dark side of online poker, centered around a young college student (Justin Timberlake) who loses money on a corrupt poker site and sets out to uncover the truth behind the scam. Set in a tropical backdrop, he is drawn into the high-stakes world of an influential gambling tycoon (Ben Affleck), who exposes him to the industry's shady dealings. The film leans more toward crime drama than realism, offering a stylized take on the online poker underworld.

Whether you’re a poker enthusiast or just love a good movie, these films will keep you on the edge of your seat! Looking for more poker movies about legendary pros, underground games, and high-stakes Texas Hold’em battles? This list has you covered!