Molly’s Game, directed by Aaron Sorkin, is a gripping film based on the true story of Molly Bloom, a former Olympic-class skier who ran an exclusive underground poker game for Hollywood celebrities, athletes, and business moguls. The movie explores themes of power, ambition, and the consequences of living in the fast lane. If you enjoyed Molly’s Game and are looking for similar movies that delve into the world of high-stakes gambling, power dynamics, and the allure of the glamorous lifestyle, here are some recommendations for you.
1. Casino (1995) – Directed by Martin Scorsese, this classic film follows the rise and fall of a Las Vegas casino owner and his tumultuous relationship with his wife and business partner. The movie features stellar performances from Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone.
2. Rounders (1998) – Starring Matt Damon and Edward Norton, Rounders is a gritty drama about the underground world of high-stakes poker. Damon plays a reformed gambler who gets pulled back into the game when his friend (Norton) gets in trouble with a Russian mobster.
3. The Gambler (2014) – This remake of the 1974 film stars Mark Wahlberg as a literature professor with a gambling addiction who gets in over his head with loan sharks. The movie explores the destructive nature of addiction and the lengths people will go to in order to feed their vices.
4. Molly’s Game (2017) – Of course, we can’t talk about similar movies without mentioning Molly’s Game itself. Jessica Chastain delivers a powerhouse performance as Molly Bloom, capturing the complexity and vulnerability of a woman caught in a dangerous game of power and ambition.
5. Ocean’s Eleven (2001) – This star-studded heist film follows a group of con artists led by George Clooney as they plan to rob three Las Vegas casinos simultaneously. The movie is a stylish and entertaining romp that showcases the thrill of pulling off the perfect crime.
6. 21 (2008) – Based on a true story, 21 follows a group of MIT students who use their math skills to win millions of dollars playing blackjack in Las Vegas. The film explores the ethical implications of cheating the system and the consequences of greed.
7. The Cooler (2003) – William H. Macy plays a “cooler” for a Las Vegas casino, whose mere presence at the tables is enough to turn a hot streak cold. When he falls in love with a cocktail waitress (Maria Bello), his luck starts to change, much to the dismay of the casino’s owner (Alec Baldwin).
8. Runner Runner (2013) – Justin Timberlake stars as a college student who gets caught up in the world of online gambling and ends up working for a shady offshore casino owner (Ben Affleck). The film explores the darker side of the gambling industry and the moral compromises people make in pursuit of wealth.
9. Croupier (1998) – Clive Owen stars as a struggling writer who takes a job as a casino dealer and gets drawn into a world of deception, double-crosses, and high-stakes gambling. The film is a stylish and atmospheric thriller that explores the allure of the casino lifestyle.
10. The Sting (1973) – This classic film stars Paul Newman and Robert Redford as a pair of con artists who plan an elaborate scheme to take down a corrupt businessman. The movie is a masterclass in deception, with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
11. Molly’s Game (2017) – “Everlong” by Foo Fighters
– This song perfectly captures the intensity and emotional depth of Molly’s journey, with its soaring vocals and powerful guitar riffs.
12. Casino (1995) – “Gimme Shelter” by The Rolling Stones
– This iconic song plays during a pivotal scene in the film, adding an extra layer of tension and drama to the proceedings.
13. Rounders (1998) – “Poker Face” by Lady Gaga
– This catchy pop hit is a fitting choice for a movie about high-stakes poker and the art of bluffing.
14. The Gambler (2014) – “The House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals
– This haunting classic perfectly captures the dark and dangerous world of gambling addiction.
15. Ocean’s Eleven (2001) – “Sympathy for the Devil” by The Rolling Stones
– This rock anthem sets the tone for the cool and stylish vibe of the heist film.
16. 21 (2008) – “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” by The Rolling Stones
– This song plays during a pivotal moment in the film, underscoring the themes of ambition and consequences.
17. The Cooler (2003) – “Luck Be a Lady” by Frank Sinatra
– This classic tune is a fitting choice for a movie about luck and fate in the world of gambling.
18. Runner Runner (2013) – “Money for Nothing” by Dire Straits
– This rock hit perfectly captures the allure and danger of the online gambling industry.
19. Croupier (1998) – “The Look of Love” by Dusty Springfield
– This sultry song sets the mood for the stylish and atmospheric world of the casino.
20. The Sting (1973) – “The Entertainer” by Scott Joplin
– This ragtime classic is the perfect choice for a movie about con artists and deception.
Common Questions:
1. Is Molly’s Game based on a true story?
– Yes, Molly’s Game is based on the true story of Molly Bloom, a former Olympic-class skier who ran an exclusive underground poker game for Hollywood celebrities, athletes, and business moguls.
2. Who plays Molly Bloom in the film?
– Jessica Chastain delivers a powerhouse performance as Molly Bloom, capturing the complexity and vulnerability of a woman caught in a dangerous game of power and ambition.
3. What are some other movies similar to Molly’s Game?
– Some other movies similar to Molly’s Game include Casino, Rounders, The Gambler, Ocean’s Eleven, and Runner Runner.
4. What themes does Molly’s Game explore?
– Molly’s Game explores themes of power, ambition, and the consequences of living in the fast lane.
5. What is the significance of the poker games in the film?
– The poker games in the film serve as a backdrop for the larger themes of power, ambition, and the allure of the glamorous lifestyle.
6. How does Molly’s character evolve throughout the film?
– Molly’s character evolves from a naive and ambitious young woman to a savvy and resilient entrepreneur who learns to navigate the dangerous world of high-stakes gambling.
7. What is the relationship between Molly and her players?
– Molly has a complex and often fraught relationship with her players, who are drawn to her charisma and intelligence but also wary of her power and ambition.
8. How does Molly’s background as a skier influence her approach to running the poker games?
– Molly’s background as a skier instills in her a sense of discipline, focus, and determination that serves her well in the high-pressure world of underground poker.
9. What are some key moments in the film that highlight Molly’s journey?
– Some key moments in the film include Molly’s arrest by the FBI, her decision to cooperate with the authorities, and her eventual redemption as a successful author and speaker.
10. How does the film portray the glamorous lifestyle of the poker players?
– The film portrays the glamorous lifestyle of the poker players through lavish parties, expensive cars, and high-stakes games that take place in luxurious settings.
11. What are some of the risks and dangers that Molly faces in running the poker games?
– Molly faces risks and dangers such as legal troubles, threats from the Russian mob, and betrayal from her players as she navigates the dangerous world of underground gambling.
12. How does Molly’s relationship with her father influence her choices and actions?
– Molly’s relationship with her father, a demanding and controlling figure, shapes her drive for success and her need to prove herself in a male-dominated world.
13. What lessons can viewers take away from Molly’s Game?
– Viewers can take away lessons about the importance of integrity, resilience, and self-reliance in the face of adversity.
14. How does Molly’s Game compare to other films about gambling and power dynamics?
– Molly’s Game stands out for its complex portrayal of a female protagonist in a male-dominated world, as well as its exploration of themes of ambition, power, and morality.
In conclusion, Molly’s Game is a compelling and thought-provoking film that offers a glimpse into the high-stakes world of underground poker. If you enjoyed the movie, be sure to check out some of these similar films that explore themes of power, ambition, and the allure of the glamorous lifestyle. From classic casino dramas to stylish heist films, there’s something for every fan of the genre. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of the game or the complexities of human nature, these movies are sure to keep you entertained and engaged. So place your bets, roll the dice, and see where the cards fall in these exciting tales of risk and reward.
