The Intersection of Gambling and Crime in Film

It is no secret that gambling has long been a popular subject in film and entertainment. Hollywood filmmakers have captured it all on screen, from the high-risk intensity of Las Vegas casinos to backroom poker games. What’s more interesting, however, is how many crime movies incorporate some element of gambling into their storylines. This article will explore the connection between these two seemingly unrelated concepts and analyze their significance throughout cinematic history.

The Historical Context

Throughout history, gambling has often been linked to crime, as people have taken extreme measures to avoid losing money. In the earlier days of illegal casinos and underground gambling dens, Criminal activities such as robberies and extortion were common. With the increased legalization of gambling in modern times came a decrease in these types of crimes. However, films continue to blur the lines between legal gaming establishments and illegal operations.

As the online industry boasts millions of gamblers who prefer 1 euro deposit casino sites, the popularity of gambling in the film industry has never been higher. With the element of risk and excitement that it offers, filmmakers have continued to explore the connection between gambling and crime in new ways. Online casinos are particularly popular amongst modern film audiences and have been featured prominently in many recent films as well.

The World’s Most Indispensable Movie App

The RunPee app tells you the best times to
run & pee during a movie
so you don't miss the best scenes.

As seen on

Download the RunPee app.
100% free (donation supported)

     

Read more about the RunPee app.

Common Themes and Motifs

Gambling and crime movies often share similar themes and motifs. Desperation, organized crime, redemption, or downfall are common threads in these films. Characters in gambling/crime movies are usually portrayed as desperate individuals willing to take huge risks for a chance at big winnings.

In many cases, gambling is used as a metaphor for the broader themes of life, such as luck, love, and fate. With gambling often being a reflection of human behavior, it is no wonder that filmmakers have continually explored its connection to the darker side of society.

The portrayal of gambling in movies can be positive. In some cases, gambling is portrayed as harmless fun which can lead to lucrative rewards or as a means of escaping the struggles of everyday life. Nonetheless, it is often portrayed in association with criminal activity and illegal operations.

Iconic Gambling and Crime Films

Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the most iconic gambling and crime films. From “The Sting” to “Casino,” these movies have become cinematic classics:

• The Sting. Set in 1930s Chicago, The Sting follows the story of Johnny Hooker as he seeks revenge on a powerful mob boss. He and his partner Henry Gondorff devise an elaborate plan to cheat Doyle Lonnegan at a high-stakes poker game and take him for all he’s worth. This film is notable for its witty dialogue, intricate plot twists, and charming characters.
• Casino. Directed by Martin Scorsese, Casino tells the story of a casino owner and his top enforcer as they navigate organized crime in 1970s Las Vegas. Robert De Niro stars as Sam “Ace” Rothstein, whose success leads him down a dangerous path with corrupt politicians and violent gangsters. Sharon Stone’s portrayal of Ace’s wife also earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
• Starring Matt Damon and Edward Norton, Rounders is a film about the underground world of high-stakes poker in New York City. Damon’s character Mike McDermott, must come up with $15,000 to pay off debts after losing it all in a game against Russian mobsters. With the help of his old friend Worm, played by Norton, Mike tries to make a comeback in the dangerous world of illegal poker. This film explores themes such as loyalty and morality within the gambling subculture.
• Ocean’s Eleven. A remake of a 1960 film, Ocean’s Eleven follows Danny Ocean and his team as they plan to rob three Las Vegas casinos simultaneously. The all-star cast includes George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Julia Roberts. This light-hearted crime caper brings the audience along for the ride with witty dialogue and elaborate heist scenes that keep you on edge until the end.

What people are saying
about the RunPee app.

A Google user

November 19, 2019

Love love love this app. And, after receiving an email from Dan (the creator) that read as though it was a one-on-one communication sent only to me, I felt compelled to leave a long-overdue review. My son and I are absolutely addicted to this app…especially since I discovered it at the onset of the Marvel craze. Now we use it to confirm if there is a scene following the credits. Often times, we are the ONLY ones there watching the bonus scene…and it cracks us up. LOL! Thanks, RunPee!

View all reviews: Apple App Store | Google Play Store

     

These films have significantly impacted popular culture and the portrayal of gambling and crime in film. They have cemented themselves as timeless classics that continue to influence modern filmmakers.

Conclusion

Gambling and crime have been intertwined themes in film for many years. The connection between these two elements allows filmmakers to explore the darker side of human nature as they take on risks and seek out potential rewards. As the gambling industry evolves, it will be interesting to see how filmmakers continue to explore these themes and bring them to life on the big screen.