The world of professional gambling is a fascinating realm, filled with high-stakes risks, strategic maneuvers, and the pursuit of fortune. Documentaries provide a unique lens into the lives of those who navigate this unpredictable landscape. Here, we delve into the top five professional gambler documentaries that offer an intimate look at the trials and triumphs of individuals making a living through games of chance.
1) “The Best of It” (2016):
“The Best of It” takes viewers on a gripping journey into the lives of professional gamblers, showcasing their dedication, discipline, and the psychological toll of their chosen profession. Directed by Scott Pearson Eberly, the documentary explores the highs and lows of sports betting and card counting. With interviews featuring renowned figures like professional poker player Mike “The Mouth” Matusow and sports bettor Alan “Dink” Denkenson, the film provides an authentic portrayal of the challenges faced by those who make a living from games of skill and chance.
2) “Inside Job” (2010):
While not exclusively focused on professional gambling, “Inside Job” sheds light on the intricate world of finance and the role of risk-taking. Directed by Charles Ferguson, the documentary features interviews with financial experts and explores the blurred lines between risk, gambling, and financial markets. For those interested in understanding the parallels between the professional gambler’s mindset and that of high-stakes financial players, “Inside Job” offers a thought-provoking exploration.
3) “Bet Raise Fold: The Story of Online Poker” (2013):
Online poker revolutionized the gambling landscape, and “Bet Raise Fold” captures the rise of this phenomenon. Directed by Ryan Firpo, the documentary follows the trajectory of online poker from its inception to its heyday and the subsequent challenges it faced. Through interviews with professional poker players like Danielle “dmoongirl” Andersen and Tony “Bond18” Dunst, the film provides insights into the dynamics of the online poker community, the highs of success, and the challenges that came with the legal crackdown on the industry.
4) “High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story” (2003):
Stu Ungar, a legendary figure in the world of professional gambling, is the focal point of this documentary. Directed by A.W. Vidmer, “High Roller” delves into the tumultuous life of Ungar, a genius card player whose brilliance was matched only by his self-destructive tendencies. The film explores the highs of his multiple World Series of Poker victories and the lows of his personal struggles with addiction. “High Roller” provides a poignant and cautionary tale of a brilliant mind that found both success and tragedy in the world of professional gambling.
5) “The Player: Secrets of a Vegas Whale” (2014):
Directed by Stormy Daniels, “The Player” follows the life of professional gambler and high roller Don Johnson. Known for his extraordinary success in blackjack, Johnson became infamous for beating multiple casinos at their own game. The documentary explores Johnson’s strategic approach, negotiation skills, and the blurred line between advantage play and the casino’s attempts to safeguard their profits. “The Player” provides a glimpse into the world of high-stakes gambling, showcasing the tactics and mindset of a successful professional gambler.
Conclusion:
These top five professional gambler documentaries offer viewers an immersive experience into the captivating world of risk, reward, and strategic prowess. Whether exploring the challenges of sports betting, the evolution of online poker, the life of a legendary figure like Stu Ungar, or the exploits of a high-stakes blackjack player, these documentaries provide a nuanced understanding of the professional gambling landscape. Each film offers a unique perspective, making them essential viewing for anyone intrigued by the thrill and complexities of the world of professional gambling.
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Introduction
Gambling success
Without question, gambling gets a bad press. It’s as though every person who bets on xyz is a loser and even more concerning a victim. However, gambling is much more about the individual than the crowd. There are many who are far from mug punters but investors. Their success is based on skill. Just like the astute stockbroker there are people who have skills which go above and beyond these people who are considered financial advisers. Make no mistake, there are gamblers who are far from victims, born losers or addies frothing at the mouth.
