Casino Netflix: The 10 Must-See Movies About Casinos

If you, like me, are a fan of gambling movies, Netflix is the right streaming platform to explore. From intense poker games to the spin of the roulette wheel, I researched the most entertaining casino-inspired stories available on streaming. Explore the top 10 casino Netflix movies and dive into these cinematic art pieces offering a close-up into the gambling world.

Article Contents

• Top 10 Casino Movies on Netflix
• Netflix Casino Movies – Conclusion
• References

Top 10 Casino Movies on Netflix

1. Uncut Gems
2. Molly’s Game
3. Rounders
4. Win it All
5. Casino
6. Ocean’s Eleven
7. 21
8. Mississippi Grind
9. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar
10. The Card Counter

1. Uncut Gems (2019)

This adrenaline-fueled ride features Adam Sandler in a remarkable performance as Howard Ratner, a charismatic jeweler and gambling addict. Set in the fast-paced world of New York City’s Diamond District, Howard’s pursuit of the ultimate win is a journey filled with risky bets and heart-stopping moments, including debt collectors, angry clients, and his chaotic personal life.

As Howard navigates a series of high-tension scenarios, his relentless nature spirals into a dangerous obsession. This casino movie on Netflix^[2] brilliantly captures the chaotic world of gambling. Intense and fast-paced, it showcases Howard’s desperate attempts to stay ahead in a game where the stakes are life and death.

2. Molly’s Game (2017)

“Molly’s Game” is a captivating drama based on the true story of Molly Bloom, a former Olympic-class skier who ran the world’s most exclusive high-stakes poker game. Her players included Hollywood royalty, sports stars, business titans, and, unknown to her, the Russian mob. Molly’s entrepreneurial spirit and intelligence catapult her into a world of wealth and power, but her success comes at a high price.

The movie follows Molly’s entanglement with the law, leading to her arrest by the FBI for hosting illegal gambling. It explores her complex relationships with her players and her lawyer, who learns that there’s much more to Molly than the tabloids suggest. Her journey through the court system reveals the strengths and vulnerabilities of a woman who stood against all odds in a male-dominated world.

3. Rounders (1998)

“Rounders” follows the story of Mike McDermott, a law student with a hidden talent for poker. Dreaming of winning the World Series of Poker, Mike’s skills at the card table are unparalleled. However, after losing a high-stakes game to a notorious Russian mobster, Teddy KGB, he vows to give up poker for a more conventional life. His resolve is tested when his childhood friend drags Mike back into the game to help pay off his debts.

Mike must navigate the dangerous underground poker scene, outsmarting foes and leveraging his expertise. Balancing his responsibilities with his passion, Mike finds himself in a high-pressure situation where he must confront Teddy KGB in a final showdown. This film is rated 7.3 on IMDb^[1] and is one of the best Netflix casino movies, capturing the essence of the poker world.

4. Win it All

This casino Netflix movie follows the story of Eddie Garrett, a small-time gambler struggling with a severe addiction. Eddie’s life takes a dramatic turn when a local criminal, whom he knows, entrusts him with a duffel bag filled with cash before going to prison. Despite warnings not to touch the money, Eddie’s gambling instincts take over, leading him to gamble away a significant portion of the stash, plunging him into deep trouble.

With the imminent release of the bag’s owner, Eddie is forced to seek solutions. He grapples with his demons, attempting to turn his life around and recover the lost money. His journey is a blend of high-stakes poker games, personal growth, and his struggle to balance his compulsive behavior with his desire to do right.

5. Casino (1995)

If you’d ask me what one of the Netflix gambling movies I enjoyed most is, I would definitely say “Casino.” Starring the legendary Robert De Niro and Sharon Stone, this fast-paced drama set in the glamorous and ruthless Las Vegas promises well. The movie follows Sam “Ace” Rothstein, a gambling expert handicapper, whom the Chicago Outfit asks to oversee the day-to-day operations at the Tangiers Casino.

Ace navigates the challenges of managing the casino, keeping it profitable for the mob bosses. The plot thickens as Nicky Santoro, Ace’s childhood friend and a made man, arrives in town. Nicky’s violent temper and criminal activities begin to cause chaos, threatening Ace’s operations. The film also explores Ace’s complicated relationship with his hustler wife, Ginger, and the eventual downfall of their lives amidst corruption, the federal investigation, and the mob’s involvement in the casino.

6. Ocean’s Eleven (2001)

Danny Ocean is a sophisticated and intelligent ex-convict with an intricate plan to rob three major Las Vegas casinos simultaneously. Fresh out of prison, Danny assembles a team of eleven specialists, each with a unique skill set essential for the heist. Their target is the Bellagio, the Mirage, and the MGM Grand casinos, all owned by ruthless tycoon Terry Benedict, who is also dating Danny’s ex-wife, Tess.

The film unfolds the meticulous planning and execution of the heist, showcasing each team member’s role in the complex operation. The climax converges on the night of a highly anticipated boxing match at the Bellagio, with the team using clever diversions and high-tech equipment to outsmart casino security and the FBI. With an 83% score on Rotten Tomatoes^[3], the original “Oceans’ Eleven” also ranked among the top casino movies on Netflix.

7. 21 (2008)

Based on the true story, “21” tells about a group of MIT students who become experts in card counting and subsequently take Vegas casinos for millions in winnings. The protagonist, Ben Campbell, a gifted student and aspiring medical doctor, is drawn into this world by his professor, Micky Rosa. Struggling to fund his Harvard Medical School tuition, Ben joins the team, learning the art of blackjack and card counting under Rosa’s guidance.

As Ben and his team use their mathematical prowess and covert signaling systems to win big, they face challenges, including evading casino security and internal conflicts. Ben’s transformation from a reserved scholar to a high-rolling gambler is central to the plot, as is his moral struggle with the deceptive nature of his actions. This casino movie on Netflix promises drama, suspense, and a dive into the complexities of the gambling scene.

8. Mississippi Grind (2015)

In “Mississippi Grind,” we meet Gerry, a down-on-his-luck gambler whose financial problems and addiction to gambling have strained his personal life. His luck seems to turn when he crosses paths with Curtis, a younger, charismatic poker player. Recognizing a kindred spirit, Gerry convinces Curtis to hit the road with him, aiming to win big in New Orleans. High hopes and desperate measures fuel their journey as they gamble their way down the Mississippi River.

Like many other casino movies on Netflix, “Mississippi Grind” delves into the complexities of friendship, gambling habits, and personal demons. As they move from one casino to the next, the duo experiences highs and lows, both at the tables and in their relationship. “Mississippi Grind” is a road trip narrative that explores the elusive nature of luck against the backdrop of the American South’s gambling scene.

9. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023)

If you’re looking for an original casino movie on Netflix, Wes Anderson’s latest release could be the perfect fit. It follows the story of Henry Sugar, a wealthy and idle man who discovers a book about a man who can see without his eyes. Intrigued, Henry masters this skill of “seeing without seeing” and uses it to win money at casinos.

However, Henry’s journey evolves from selfish gains to altruism as he begins to use his newfound abilities for charitable purposes, profoundly changing his life and the lives of others. The tale blends magical realism with themes of personal transformation and the impact of extraordinary abilities on an ordinary life.

10. The Card Counter (2021)

William Tell is a former military interrogator turned professional gambler with a dark past. Haunted by the memories of his service, Tell leads a solitary life, traveling from one casino to another. He maintains control by counting cards, using his meticulous skills to stay under the radar. His quiet routine is disrupted when he meets Cirk, a young man seeking revenge against a former military colonel who played a pivotal role in both their pasts.

As Tell takes Cirk under his wing, he attempts to steer him away from a path of vengeance, proposing to make amends through a series of high-stakes poker games. Tell’s plan involves playing in the World Series of Poker with backing from a mysterious gambling financier named La Linda. The film explores themes of redemption and the burden of guilt as Tell navigates the complex world of professional gambling.

Netflix Casino Movies: Final Verdict

Each of these casino Netflix movies offers a unique take on the world of gambling. From the gritty and intense to the comedic and light-hearted, they provide a full spectrum of the casino experience. As both you and me immerse ourselves in these stories, we’re reminded of the allure, the thrill, and sometimes, the dangers of the gambling world. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and let the games begin with these must-see casino movies on Netflix.

References

1. IMDb, Rounders, Retrieved January 32, 2024
2. Netflix Media Center, Uncut Gems, Retrieved January 32, 2024
3. Rotten Tomatoes, Ocean’s Eleven, Retrieved January 32, 2024