The global appeal of sports betting shows no signs of slowing down. The thrill of correctly guessing a game’s outcome is an enigma many people find appealing. Naturally, the world of sports bet has inspired films, with several of the most successful films focusing on the topic.
This article will discuss some of the best movies inspired by sports wagering.
The Sting
The 1973 sports wagering classic “The Sting” is the first on the list. The movie, directed by George Roy Hill and featuring Robert Redford and Paul Newman, tells the story of a complex strategy to defraud a wealthy mobster of a substantial amount through a horse racing scam. The drama was a critical and commercial success, garnering seven nominations for Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Two for the Money
“Two for the Money” (2005), starring Al Pacino and Matthew McConaughey, is an additional well-known film inspired by sports bet. The plot centers on a former college football star who becomes a sports handicapper and captures the interest of a prominent sports betting expert. The film is based on the real-life story of Brandon Lang—a former college quarterback who moved on to become a professional sports handicapper.
The Color of Money
“The Color of Money” (1986), directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Paul Newman and Tom Cruise, is a remarkable drama depicting the world of sports wagering. The film is a sequel to “The Hustler” (1961) and recounts the story of a retired pool player who mentors a young protégé and investigates the world of high-stakes pool hustlers. It was nominated for four prestigious Academy Awards and garnered positive reviews from critics and viewers.
Notable Hits in Recent Times
“Uncut Gems” (2019) has become one of the most popular sports-themed films in recent years. Adam Sandler plays a New York City jeweler and gambling addict who wagers on a high-stakes basketball game in this film directed by the Safdie siblings. Sandler’s captivating performance and the film’s intriguing narrative were praised.
Other sports-themed films include “Lay the Favorite” (2012), based on Beth Raymer’s autobiography of the same name, “Mississippi Grind” (2015), and “Win It All” (2017), which all examine the worldwide phenomenon of clandestine gambling and sports betting.
Final Thoughts
In Hollywood, films inspired by sports bet have become a momentous subgenre, with some of the most popular films exploring the world of sports gambling.
From classics like “The Sting” and “The Color of Money” to more recent films like “Uncut Gems,” these films portray the exhilaration and excitement of sports betting. Regardless of your interest in horse racing, basketball, or billiards, these films will keep you on the edge of your seat.
