Adam Sandler puts in a career-best performance as Howard “Howie” Ratner, a bungling New York City jeweller who just can’t resist the risky business of high-stakes sports betting.įar from a typical Adam Sandler film, Uncut Gems is darker than it is comical – although it’s not without its wit – and Howie’s chaotic descent into financial turmoil and knack for associating himself will dodgy characters make for a tense viewing. One of the best gambling movies on Netflix for sure. Don't bother with the 2014 re-make starring Mark Wahlberg, the original is where it's at. As the film continues, we see Caan’s character plunge into self-destruction and his mental state become increasingly precarious.Īs his borrowing becomes steadily worse and his need for thrills threatens to endanger his life, the film builds to a steady crescendo and brilliant climax.Ī classic gambler movie, this one came out in 1974 but even today it serves as a pretty severe warning against addiction – of any kind – and to always gamble responsibly.

Whether any more of these casino NZ movies will be preserved by the Library of Congress remains to be seen – it’s doubtful – but in the meantime you can start crossing them off your ‘ones to watch’ list on Netflix, Prime, YouTube or wherever you get your film fix.Īptly named, The Gambler tells the story of a university professor – played by a compelling James Caan – who has an addiction to casino gambling. Only one on this list of gambling films has been inducted into the National Film Registry and just two took home awards at the Oscars – but perhaps a lack of recognition is key to a movie becoming a cult classic?

Best sports gambling movie