Added to Prime Video on Thursday, Jan 18, 2024 Rounders, released in 1998, is a gripping drama centered on the underground world of high-stakes poker. The story follows Mike McDermott, a young, talented poker player who dreams of playing in the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. However, his aspirations take a backseat when he loses his entire bankroll to a Russian mobster, Teddy KGB, in a high-stakes game. Vowing to focus on his law studies and his relationship, Mike quits poker. The plot thickens when Mike’s childhood friend, Lester ‘Worm’ Murphy, is released from prison, pulling Mike back into the world of poker. The film explores themes of addiction, risk, and friendship as Mike juggles his commitments and his passion for poker, leading to a climactic showdown.
Length: 2h 1m
Genre: Drama, Crime
This Title is: Intense, Thought-Provoking
Rounders is New on Prime Video in Canada!
Trailer
Cast
- Matt Damon as Mike McDermott
- Edward Norton as Lester ‘Worm’ Murphy
- John Malkovich as Teddy KGB
Parental Guidance
Maturity Rating: R (for pervasive strong language, some sexuality and brief drug use)
Content includes gambling, language, and brief violence.
Trivia
- The poker games depicted in the movie are so realistic that several professional poker players have praised the film for its accurate representation of the atmosphere in high-stakes poker games.
- John Malkovich, who played the role of Teddy KGB, reportedly improvised much of his character’s Russian accent and mannerisms.
- The film has become a cult classic among poker enthusiasts and is credited with contributing to the poker boom in the early 2000s.
Our Review
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“Rounders” is a film that captivates with its deep dive into the psychology of poker and its intense character-driven narrative. Matt Damon and Edward Norton deliver compelling performances, bringing depth to their roles. The movie’s portrayal of the poker world is both thrilling and realistic, making it a must-watch for enthusiasts of the game. While the storyline can be predictable, the film’s atmosphere and character dynamics make for an engaging watch. Its impact on the popularity of poker is notable, making “Rounders” a significant film in the genre.
Critic Scores
Critic Scores aggregate ratings from IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and Metacritic. (Click on any score for a detailed review.)
