5 minute read
Casinos have always exerted a special pull on filmmakers. Over the years this has resulted in an impressive filmography where these exciting locations play a central role. Famous examples include ‘Rounders’, ‘The Gambler’, ‘Oceans 11’, ‘Casino’ or James Bond in ‘Casino Royale’.
These movies often depict a world fraught with risk and full of glamour and intrigue. The attraction is not just about the glittering lights and the excitement of the game; the complex characters and the engaging plot are also key in keeping the viewing audience on the edge of their seat. But did you know that numerous exhilarating flicks have been released in recent years with casinos in starring roles, or at the very least in a thrilling supporting role? What’s more, you no longer have to visit a movie theatre to see them. Thanks to the various streaming services, inviting casino games into your living room is now child’s play. We compiled a list of the most recent films for you:
The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023)
In his signature quirky style, director Wes Anderson brings to life the story of Henry Sugar. Based on the Roald Dahl story, this short film follows a wealthy British bachelor (Benedict Cumberbatch) who learns to see through cards by mastering a special meditation technique. What starts out as a quest for even greater wealth soon changes into a spiritual journey to self-discovery. The film is a visual spectacle that celebrates the magic of cinema, finely balanced with the underlying themes of Dahl’s story. With a running time of just 39 minutes you can hardly call it a feature film but it’s not a genuine short either. As a result, the cadence and density Anderson maintains in this compact movie are of rare perfection. You can see the movie magic with your own eyes and you still can’t help but believe – with a broad smile. Form and content are perfectly aligned. Watch it on Netflix.
Quiz Lady (2023)
This comedy starring Awkwafina and Sandra Oh tells the story of Anne Yum, an unobtrusive office clerk who’s addicted to a TV game show. One day her mother vanishes without a trace from her nursing home and subsequently her older sister Jenny temporarily moves in with her. As Anne watches her favourite game show, Jenny secretly records her sister as she fires off one correct answer after another. She posts the video online and Anne goes viral. As it turns out, mama Yum fled to Macau due to gambling debts. One of her creditors sees the video of Anne, kidnaps her dog and demands a hefty ransom. For Anne, the only option to secure her dog’s safe return is to win the quiz. ‘Quiz Lady’ offers a light-hearted and humorous look at the world of TV game shows, with a heartwarming story of family ties.
The Card Counter (2021)
Paul Schrader immerses us in a joyless world of identical casinos and hotel lobbies, the biotope of choice of the vacant poker player and former soldier William Tell (Oscar Isaac). William uses his card counting skills to lead a modest life but when he meets Cirk, a young man with a dim past linked to his own, William decides to help him. For this he takes part in the poker championships. With the prize money Cirk can pay off his debts and get a fresh start in life. Unfortunately, the past catches up to the both of them. Against the background of a merciless casino environment, the film details an intense and sombre journey through the inner conflict of a man struggling with feelings of guilt and redemption.
Uncut Gems (2019)
In this nervy thriller by the Safdie brothers, Adam Sandler is Howard Ratner, a jeweller living in New York. Ratner is a gambling addict and lives life in the fast lane. He has a family, standing and a successful business yet he is constantly looking for the next deal or a fresh angle. He tries to pay off his debts through the lucrative sale of a rare opal but nevertheless decides to first loan it to NBA star Kevin Garnett, who is absolutely convinced the stone possesses magical powers that will help him in that night’s game. Meanwhile, Howard places risky bets on basketball games while his creditors pull out all the stops to thwart Howard’s plans. Hitch a ride on the rollercoaster life of a man who risks it all in hopes of that one big pay day. ‘Uncut Gems’ gives us an unfiltered look into this hectic world.
Molly’s Game (2017)
Aaron Sorkin directs the screen version of the true story of Molly Bloom, a former top athlete who organises an exclusive and illegal poker tournament. In her casino, frequented by Hollywood stars and business moguls, Molly becomes entangled in the dark side of the world of big league gambling. The underground casino is not considered illegal since her games don’t require a buy-in and Molly lives off tips. Still, tips alone won’t cover her losses when players can’t pay so she decides to take a percentage of large pots. However, this turns her games into an illegal gambling operation, putting her on the radar of the FBI. Through the fascinating portrait of a woman who takes every risk in a men’s world, ‘Molly’s Game’ lays bare all the shortcomings of underground casinos.
Which of these movies will you be watching next? Or would you prefer some first-hand casino experience at VIAGE?
