Often set against the alluring backdrop of Las Vegas, movies with a casino theme or storyline provide insight into the ins and outs of the casino lifestyle that many are not privy to. If you’re looking to sit back and enjoy a casino movie or two anytime soon, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular titles for you to consider, in no particular order. Why don’t you have a break from our top online slots in the UK and watch one of the following classics?

Uncut Gems (2019)

Widely categorised as a dark comedy and crime thriller, Adam Sandler takes on the lead role of Howard Ratner. A jeweller and gambling addict, Ratner must retrieve a pricey gem that he purchased in order to pay off his debt. Of course, this is not without a series of unexpected challenges, betrayals, and misunderstandings.

High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story (2003)

Based on the life and times of renowned poker player Stu Ungar, this is one of the less conventional and non-fiction gambling movies on this list. In this epic and eye-opening biopic, Michael Imperioli assumes the lead role of Ungar and details his personal life, career, and his demise.

The biopic also boasts cameos from Vince Van Patten, Andy Glazer, and Al Bernstein, who are notable figures in professional sports.

Casino (1995)

When it comes to some of the top movies of all time that are inspired by casinos and gambling, Casino deserves a mention. As one of the more dated movies on this list, it has truly stood the test of time and continues to attract new viewers. Starring Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci, Casino showcases the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas nightlife, contrasted with the lesser-known dealings that happen behind the scenes in questionable acts to get ahead.

The movie is based on De Niro’s character, Sam “Ace” Rothstein and the difficulties he faces in his personal life and his job as an expert handicapper in the changing Las Vegas gambling scene.

The Card Counter (2021)

As the title suggests, this is a casino film about counting cards. Starring Oscar Isaac, Tiffany Haddish, Tye Sheridan, and Willem Dafoe, The Card Counter is based on the life of William Tell, a man who taught himself how to count cards during his eight years in a military prison as an interrogator. However, his past life seems to follow him everywhere he goes, as he continues to be haunted by the ghosts of his past.

This thrilling movie focuses on themes such as redemption, revenge, guilt, and risking it all.

Casino Royale (2006)

“The name’s Bond, James Bond.” If you’ve ever heard that iconic line, then you probably know a thing or two about this movie sensation. Assuming the role of 007, James Bond (played by the legendary Daniel Craig) is tasked with defeating a private banker who’s funding terrorists in a game of high-stakes poker.

Whether you enjoy poker, blackjack, or online slots – or from anywhere else, for that matter – then you’ll understand the pressure that comes with playing when the stakes are extremely high. This movie is a balanced mix of thrill, mystery, romance, and drama.

Ocean’s Eleven (2011)

Starring George Clooney as Danny Ocean, as well as Matt Damon, Julia Roberts, Brad Pitt, and Andy Garcia, this star-studded movie is one of the best gambling movies of all time and is sure to remain popular for years to come. It’s a remake of a 1960 movie of the same name and has reignited interest in the heist comedy film.

After being released from prison, Danny meets up with his friend, Ryan Rusty (played by Pitt), to plan a heist of $160 million from Terry Benedict (Garcia), who is a casino owner. Benedict also happens to be Tess Ocean’s (Roberts) husband.

Molly’s Game (2017)

This movie is based on a memoir of the same name by Molly Bloom. Jessica Chastain assumes the lead role of Bloom, who finds herself being investigated by the FBI. This is after the underground poker empire that she runs on behalf of her business associates is exposed, making her a target. 

You can look forward to seeing Idris Elba, Kevin Costner, Michael Cera, and Jeremy Strong, who star in this riveting crime drama film based on a real-life story. 

Rounders (1998)

Matt Damon stars in another movie on this list. This time, he appears alongside Edward Norton and John Malkovich. Damon assumes the lead role of Mike McDermott, a law student with aspirations of winning the World Series of Poker (WSOP). He soon finds himself back at the high-stakes game, despite telling his girlfriend he had quit, in an attempt to help an old friend repay a debt.

21 (2008)

Inspired by real events, 21 can be considered a coming-of-age movie about a boy who finds himself in the casino world in pursuit of money to fund his education to become a doctor. His professor, well aware of his mathematical abilities, invites him to join a club where they are trained at card counting in blackjack. What started off with good intentions takes a turn for the worse when greed and arrogance come to the fore.

This movie stars Kevin Spacey, Kate Bosworth, and Jim Sturgess.

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Evidently, Las Vegas and casino nightlife have inspired many movies over the years. If the narratives above are anything to go by, then there’s a whole new world to explore when you play casino games online. Take your pick from blackjack, Slingo, roulette, baccarat, and a wide variety of slots when you register at The Phone Casino.