Top 5 Gambling Movies to Stream During the WSOP
It's time for the biggest live poker event to descend on us, so here at PokerNews, we thought this was an opportune moment to take a look at some of the best gambling entertainment you can find away from the tables.
So, during the 2025 World Series of Poker, if you want a change of pace in between events, we've got you covered with our Top Gambling Movies to Stream now!
Editor's Note: as this is a topic we've revisited a few times, I've omitted some certified classics like '21', 'Rounders', 'Molly's Game', and others. Let's be honest, you've already seen all those, right?
Top 5 Gambling Movies to Stream During the WSOP
When the World Series of Poker (WSOP) rolls around, poker players and fans of live poker are often glued to the tables, whether attending in person or catching up on the latest coverage online. But even seasoned pros need an occasional break from the grind, and a great gambling movie could be just the right entertainment to check out during the series.
From high-concept heist flicks to gritty tales of addiction, these films differ in plotline, but they all have a common theme: the high-risk, high-reward world of gambling and poker. So, whether you're about to sit down at the final table or just want some poker-themed escapism, here are the best gambling movies to stream during the WSOP.
1. Uncut Gems (2019)
Uncut Gems stars Adam Sandler as Harold Ratner, a charismatic yet unconventional New York jeweler with a sports betting addiction and the debts to match.
This 2019 Netflix flick was popular during its release for its commitment to anxiety inducement, as we accompany Harold on his quest to retrieve a priceless gem, pay off his debts, and come out on top.
Why Stream During WSOP:
- Captures the emotional intensity of the hustle.
- Features a realistic portrayal of sports betting.
- Action doesn't let up in the 135-minute runtime.
Where to Stream Uncut Gems:
- Netflix (US/UK)
The PokerNews Rating
Whilst it's not an 'easy' watch, Uncut Gems is an often anxiety-inducing thrill-ride, giving the audience a front-row seat to watch the breakdown of a New York hustler.
2. Ocean’s Trilogy (2001, 2004, 2007)
Ok so it's almost a cliche to feature Ocean’s Trilogy here, but few films capture the glamour of Vegas like Ocean’s Eleven, Twelve, and Thirteen. Blending a compelling heist plot, casino landmark locations, and a star-studded cast, the Oceans Trilogy are three films to return to again and again, especially during WSOP.
Did You Know?
The first Oceans Eleven is a remake of a 1960 heist movie, Oceans 11, starring Frank Sinatra and the 'Rat Pack'.
Why Stream During WSOP:
- Set in iconic Las Vegas casinos.
- Focuses on bluffing and timing.
- The cool confidence of the cast matches that of seasoned poker players.
Where to Stream the Oceans Trilogy:
Ocean's Eleven
- Max
- Prime Video (US)
Ocean's Twelve
- Max
- Prime Video (US)
Ocean's Thirteen
- Max
- Prime Video (US)
The PokerNews Rating
The Oceans Trilogy movies still stand up years after their release, and they're great fun to watch if you want to get in the WSOP mood.
3. Win It All (2017)
Possibly one of the more overlooked titles on our list, Win It All features Jake Johnson as small-time gambler, Eddie Garrett, who finds a stash of cash and decides to risk it all.
It's definitely a slow burner compared to the glitzy action of the Oceans movies, and despite some humorous moments, is confronting in its depiction of a struggling gambler and the grip of his addiction.
Why Stream During WSOP:
- Realistic stakes and down-to-earth struggles.
- Honest depiction of gambling addiction and redemption.
- Underdog energy that will resonate with some live poker players.
Where to Stream Win It All:
- Netflix (Worldwide)
The PokerNews Rating
Possibly the most realistic depiction of gambling addiction and its myriad problems, Win It All is rougher around the edges than other entries on our list, but succeeds because of that contrast.
4. The Gambler (2014)
This remake of the 1974 James Caan classic stars Mark Wahlberg as a literature professor with a sports betting addiction and ever-increasing debts. The Gambler features many sub-themes linked to gambling, highlighting the lack of control shown by Wahlberg's character, Jim, when he seeks to borrow money to consolidate debts, only to gamble it away in a casino.
Why Stream During WSOP:
- A cautionary tale about balancing risk and control.
- Examines compulsion and pushing your limits.
- Reminds viewers to play smart during the WSOP.
Where to Stream The Gambler:
- Paramount+ (US)
- Prime Video (US)
- Apple TV (rental)
The PokerNews Rating
A good but not great watch, The Gambler is a decent watch, but other 'addiction' movies do a better job of portraying gambling issues.
Never chase losses
Always set limits
Take regular breaks
Read the stories behind the Hollywood movies!
Our Casino Cheating article shows the biggest scandals to hit the gambling industry.
Read more5. Eight Men Out (1988)
Though not a poker or casino movie, Eight Men Out explores one of history’s most infamous sports gambling scandals: the 1919 Black Sox.
Featuring stars like John Cusack, Charlie Sheen, and David Straithairn, Eight Men Out spotlights the eight Chicago White Sox players accused of fixing the 1919 World Series, and was acclaimed for showing the link between sports gambling and organized crime in the early twentieth century.
Why Stream During WSOP:
- It's a gambling 'morality tale'.
- Offers historical context to sports betting and crime syndicates.
- Stays on theme, despite the lack of poker action.
Where to Stream Eight Men Out:
- Pluto TV (US)
- Amazon (rental)
The PokerNews Rating
It might appear dated now, but Eight Men Out offers a great insight into the clash between sports betting and organised crime in the early twentieth century.
The Best Gambling Movies to Stream: The PokerNews Verdict
Whether you're about to attend the Main Event or just playing online, these movies add drama, inspiration, and depth to the WSOP experience. From the gritty realism of Uncut Gems to the slick charm of Ocean's Eleven, they remind us why we love a gamble.
So if you want to stay sharp between events, you could do worse than to check out our list of gambling movies!
Why no Poker Face in this list?
You might have been expecting to see the 2022 Russell Crowe flick in our list, but let's just say the critics didn't agree, and the 'poker' action in the game is sparse to say the least.
Read what our very own Jon Sofen had to say about this much-maligned movie in his Poker Face review.
The Best Gambling Movies to Stream During the WSOP FAQs
Where can I stream these gambling movies during WSOP?
Most are available on major platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, Paramount+, or for rent on Apple TV. Streaming availability may vary by region.
Are any of these based on true stories?
Yes. Eight Men Out is famously based on a true story surrounding the 1919 White Sox baseball team.
Which movie has the most realistic poker scenes?
Although not on our list this time, Rounders is widely regarded as the most authentic poker movie, though Win It All offers a grounded and emotional portrayal of low-stakes gambling.
Can watching gambling movies improve my poker game?
While they won’t teach strategy (and nor should they), they can offer psychological insights, motivation, and help you understand the emotional highs and lows of poker.
Are there any family-friendly gambling movies?
Most gambling films deal with adult themes, but Ocean’s Eleven is relatively clean and entertaining for older teens and adults.
What’s a good documentary to pair with these films?
All In: The Poker Movie is a great documentary that explores the rise of poker and its cultural impact.
