From the classic cinematic masterpieces of Martin Scorsese’s “Casino” to more modern takes on the casino lifestyle, like Netflix’s original series “Ozark.” There’s a wealth of great entertainment focused on life in and around casinos that can keep you entertained through the end of 2022. Whether you’re looking for a movie to while away an evening, or a series-length binge-fest, here are some of the best casino movies and series to check out before the end of the year.
Casino
For those who enjoy classic mob movies, Martin Scorsese’s “Casino” is an absolute must-watch before the end of 2022. “Casino” follows Las Vegas mob enforcer, Sam Rothstein (Robert De Niro) as he rises through the ranks of organized crime in Sin City. The movie also stars Joe Pesci, Sharon Stone, and James Woods and is a fascinating look into the inner workings of the mob in Vegas.
Ozark
For a more modern take on casino life, look no further than Netflix’s original series “Ozark.” The show follows Marty Byrde (Jason Bateman) and his family as they relocate from the Chicago suburbs to Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks area. As the Byrdes become embroiled in a money-laundering scheme involving their new neighbors, they must balance their increasingly precarious criminal activities with suburban family life.
Casino Royale
For a more recent entry in the casino movie canon, there’s the 2006 remake of “Casino Royale.” The film stars Daniel Craig as James Bond, who is sent to a casino in Montenegro to investigate a terrorist organization. The movie was incredibly successful and sparked the beginning of Craig’s run as the iconic spy. This great film was an inspiration for Jackpot Party to create a Casino Royale slot game that is one of the most popular slot themes as many players enjoy its great features, Sounds, Graphics and Bonuses using the App.
The Hangover
For a comedic look at casino life, “The Hangover” is sure to provide plenty of laughs. The movie follows four friends who travel to Las Vegas for a bachelor party and find themselves in a series of increasingly zany scenarios involving casinos, kidnappings, and tigers.
Ocean’s Eleven
For a more light-hearted take on the subject, “Ocean’s Eleven” is definitely worth checking out. The movie follows Danny Ocean (George Clooney) and his rag-tag team of conmen as they attempt to rob three of Las Vegas’s biggest casinos. The movie was followed by two sequels, “Ocean’s Twelve” and “Ocean’s Thirteen.”
Boardwalk Empire
HBO’s original series “Boardwalk Empire” offers a unique exploration into the seedy underbelly of Atlantic City in the 1920s. The show follows bootlegger Enoch ‘Nucky’ Thompson (Steve Buscemi) as he navigates his way through the complexities of organized crime and politics in an era before casinos were legalized.
Snatch
Guy Ritchie, director of classics such as Snatch and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, has a repeated theme in his movies: gambling. Snatch (2000), one of his most popular films that star Brad Pitt, Jason Statham, Vinnie Jones, Dennis Farina Benicio del Toro, and Rade Serbedzija among others– revolves around this idea.
The movie follows Londoners from various walks of life including bookmakers boxing promoters’ robbers’ gangsters and jewelers all on the search for a stolen diamond. From stay-at-home mom slot, machine shop owners to those betting everything on boxing matches the movie is full of characters making decisions based purely on chance– just like any casino game.
The Card Counter
The Card Counter, released in 2021 and executively produced by Martin Scorsese, is a film that tells the story of William Tell- a man who taught himself to count cards while serving time in prison. In order to avoid any negative attention from casino bouncers, he would only make small bets and as a result- won modest amounts. Over time, however, he realized how gambling could help him deal with different aspects of life outside of prison.
Molly’s Game
Molly’s Game, Aaron Sorkin’s directorial debut movie, is based on a memoir by Molly Bloom. This 2017 film follows Bloom (played by Jessica Chastain) as she is being investigated by the FBI for running an underground poker empire. Her clients vary from Hollywood celebs and athletes to business tycoons and mobsters. Even though Molly did not know how poker worked at first, she quickly learned the rules and how to manage her own games expertly.
Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a great option if you’re looking for something more light-hearted. The TV show aired from 2003 to 2008 and produced 106 episodes during the five seasons. In addition to Sonny Corleone himself – James Caan – you also see Josh Duhamel and Tom Selleck as well as some notable guest stars like Sylvester Stallone, Gladys Knight, and Little Richard. The series showcases how casinos are run and which problems they often encounter.
Win It All
Win It All is a Netflix original movie about an unreliable gambler, Eddie Garrett (played by Jake Johnson). After being entrusted with a duffel bag full of cash, Eddie succumbs to his temptation and decides to use it all in the casino. In order to win back the money, he makes desperate choices that might cost him more than just money. The movie is directed by Joe Swanberg and it also stars Aislinn Derbez, Keegan-Michael Key, and Joe Lo Truglio.
No matter your taste, there’s something for everyone when it comes to casino-themed movies or series. With the end of 2022 rapidly approaching, now is the time to check out some of these classic favorites and discover your new favorite way to pass the time. So, grab some popcorn and get ready for a movie night full of thrilling gambling adventures!