People have always enjoyed the thrill of gambling and the appreciation of this form of entertainment seems deeply rooted in the human DNA. Throughout history, games of chance have played an important part in in the lives of people around the globe, and of all cultures. Since the Internet’s arrival we have seen the gambling and betting industry transform into a global arena of endless possibilities for those interested. Anyone doubting the cultural importance of gambling just have to take a look at how often the topic plays a role in movies.
“But not all great movies are produced in Hollywood…”
Hollywood has given us loads of movies in some way connected to gambling. Casino-related ones are in clear majority, which is no surprise since casinos are a big thing in the U.S. Some of these are even regarded as masterpieces, with cast lists filled to the brim with top-of-the-class actors loved by the industry and public alike. But not all great movies are produced in Hollywood, that’s for sure. Actually, even some of the best gambling movies have been produced elsewhere. We have put together a list of three of the best gambling movies created outside of Hollywood and in other countries than the U.S.
Owning Mahowny (2003)
This Canadian movie is a must-see for any fan of Philip Seymour Hoffman, who sadly passed away not many years ago. This movie covers the true events that took place when bank manager Brian Mahowny, played by Seymour Hoffman in the movie, committed the largest bank fraud ever in Canada. The reason behind his actions? Feeding a severe gambling habit, that no one close to him even knew existed. The film takes place in the 1980s and there was no Internet around, basically, so Seymour Hoffman spends his illegally acquired gambling money at different casinos in Atlantic City. Today, Canadians who feel like playing casino games can just go online and choose from the endless rows of online establishments available, without even leaving the house. Choosing the right one is important though, so make sure to visit a site like casinocanadapro.com to find the best online casino before signing up.
God of Gamblers (1989)
This is not only an entertaining, action-packed movie, but also a historically important piece, as it helped getting the film industry in Hong-Kong back on its feet. Also set in the 1980s, this film includes a lot of real-life card and table games in a time when online gambling was not yet possible. The lead in this exciting gambling movie is played by Cho Yun Fat, who you might recognize from the successful wuxia-film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. God of Gamblers is a fast-paced comedy, packed with both suspense and action, and as such it might not be for everyone. It’s set in various locations in the Far East and the plot is set in a world containing some supernatural elements.
Intacto (2001)
This Spanish psychological thriller is also set in a world where supernatural events take place, and in this case the very thing that gambling is all about is a the center of attention – luck. In the world of Intacto, luck is something that can be acquired and lost in different ways, how about that? It can actually even be stolen and taken from you by others who covet it. Swedish actor Max von Sydow plays the antagonist, a casino owner named Samuel Berg. This man has more luck than most people and makes sure to steal it from others as he sees fit. The lead role Federico is played by Leonardo Sbaraglia, and these two gentlemen have a serious falling out. In this thriller, the outcome of gambling is literally a matter of life or death and the events will have you biting your nails and your heart racing like never before.
