The classic casino game of poker was created in America around the early 19th century, but it wasn’t until the growth of casinos in the 20th century that poker quickly established itself as one of the most exciting and entertaining games around.
In recent years poker has seen unprecedented growth, thanks to the advent of smartphone technology and faster, more reliable internet speeds. Now poker is no longer beholden to the opening times and physical constraints of a land-based casino, instead players can easily access poker online at a time and place that’s convenient to them.
Today, the history and global popularity of poker has seen it become an established part of everyday culture, influencing TV, film, literature, music, fashion, and more. Here’s our breakdown of some of the most iconic poker moments in pop culture.
Movies
Poker is a popular choice for movies because it allows scriptwriters to build tension, excitement, and intrigue, by using the game to take viewers on a roller coaster ride.
Casino Royale (2006):
The iconic fictitious spy, 007, otherwise known as James Bond, is perhaps even more famous for his regular visits to casinos. One of the most celebrated scenes in the movie saw Bond playing Texas Hold ’em against his arch rival, with $115 million at stake.
The scene cleverly uses the high stakes game to create an atmosphere filled with tension and suspense. Close-ups of Bond (Daniel Craig) and Le Chiffre highlight Bond’s cool, calm, demeanour, while his rival becomes ever more desperate. The scenes climax comes when the suave and Bond outwits his opponent and reveals a straight flush winning hand. It’s an inch perfect depiction of what poker is all about.
Rounders (1998):
Starring Matt Damon, Ed Norton, and John Malkovich, “Rounders” is widely considered the best poker movie ever made. The story takes place in the underground world of high-stakes poker and follows two friends who desperately need to win a high-stakes poker game in order to pay off a debt. Noted for its relatable characters and underdog story, the film expertly showcases the thrill and risk of playing underground poker.
Molly’s Game (2017):
This film tells the story of Molly Bloom, who organised high-stakes poker games for celebrities and other wealthy individuals. Based on a true story that ended in scandal, this film focuses on the ‘Poker Queen’ Molly Bloom who was involved in high-stakes poker games between some of the most prominent celebrities from Hollywood, politics, and the world of big business. The high stakes of the poker games are set against the backdrop of the criminal investigation into the running of the games and the media attention that her work attracted.
Other Great Poker movies:
- The Card Counter (2021)
- Mississippi Grind (2015)
- Croupier (1998)
- The Cincinnati Kid (1965)
- Maverick (1994)
- The Card Counter (2021)
- 5 Card Stud (1968)
- Poker Face (2022)
- Smart Money (1931)
Television
Friends (1995): The One with All the Poker
Perhaps the best way to explain poker’s place in pop culture and acceptance by the mainstream, is this TV episode of “Friends”. The hugely popular and much-loved sit-com, featured the characters joking and having fun while playing a competitive but low stakes game. The episode showcased poker as an entertaining bonding and leisure activity that can be played socially, and is highly relatable for casual players.
Music
Music has been influenced by poker for many years, with numerous artists incorporating its themes and imagery into their work. The game of poker involves elements of strategy, risk, and unpredictability, which makes it a useful metaphor for storytelling.
Lady Gaga: “Poker Face” (2008)
The influential American singer, songwriter, and actress, Lady Gaga, used the language of poker to explore relationships in her song “Poker Face”. The single was a huge hit and highlighted how the language of poker has become such a relatable part of our everyday lives.
Poker themed Songs
- Elvis Presley: “Viva Las Vegas”
- Frank Sinatra: “Luck Be a Lady”
- Clint Black: “A Good Run of Bad Luck”
- Kenny Rogers: “The Gambler”
- The Eagles: “Desperado”
- Motorhead: “The Ace of Spades”
It isn’t just individual songs that poker has influenced. Country and blues music regularly feature poker, with artists using the game as a recurring motif in their musical storytelling.
Books
Before movies even existed, authors utilised the imagery, tension, and excitement of poker in their stories for many years. Perhaps one of the most famous was the classic novel “The Cincinnati Kid” by Richard Jessup. It tells the story of a young poker player trying to prove himself against a legendary opponent, and perfectly captures the tension and drama of a high-stakes poker game. It was later made into a film starring Steve McQueen.
There’s no doubt that poker has left an indelible mark on pop culture over the years, influencing the creative industries such as film, television, music, and books. Proof, if ever any were needed, that poker remains one of the most exciting and entertaining games around.