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From the Silver Screen to the Poker Table: Ranking the Best Canadian Gambling Movies

Gambling, a pastime that dates back to primitive times, has transformed throughout the centuries from simple games of chance to the sophisticated universe of land-based and online casinos we see today. This tantalizing world, filled with high stakes, riveting suspense, and the thrill of victory or defeat, has long captivated not only gamblers but also storytellers and filmmakers, inspiring a rich array of cinematic masterpieces worldwide. Yet, amidst global fascination, Canadian cinema has carved out its niche, producing some remarkable gambling-themed movies that deserve their moment in the spotlight. In this article, we focus exclusively on these Canadian gems, showcasing how they have uniquely captured the essence of this timeless human pursuit. So, get ready to roll the dice and delve into the compelling world of Canadian gambling movies.
1. “Owning Mahowny” (2003): A riveting exploration of the devastating impacts of gambling addiction. Based on the true story of Brian Molony, Philip Seymour Hoffman delivers an electrifying performance as Dan Mahowny, a bank manager who embezzled money to sustain his gambling habit. Minnie Driver brilliantly portrays Mahowny’s girlfriend, providing a stark contrast to Hoffman’s character and adding depth to the narrative with her strong performance.
The chemistry between Hoffman and Driver is palpable, their performances perfectly capturing the tension and heartbreak inherent in their characters’ circumstances. Their portrayals complement the film’s heavy subject matter, creating a sense of impending doom that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Critically acclaimed for its authentic portrayal of addiction, “Owning Mahowny” earned Hoffman a Canadian Film Award for Best Actor, cementing his reputation as one of the finest actors of his generation. The film’s stark depiction of gambling addiction also garnered it several award nominations, further validating its impact and relevance.
2. “Barney’s Version” (2010): A vivid exploration of the tumultuous life of Barney Panofsky, played with tremendous wit and depth by Paul Giamatti. Based on Mordecai Richler’s acclaimed novel, the film follows Barney’s three marriages, his career ups and downs, and his penchant for betting on just about anything. The narrative unfolds as a series of memories, with Giamatti’s performance anchoring the film with his nuanced portrayal of a flawed, yet endearing character.
Rosalind Pike and Minnie Driver shine as Barney’s wives, their performances adding layers of complexity to their respective characters and the film as a whole. The film’s standout performance, however, is undoubtedly Giamatti’s, which earned him a Golden Globe for Best Actor. His transformation into the cantankerous and unpredictable Barney is both compelling and convincing, making him a deserving recipient of the award.
Since its release, “Barney’s Version” has garnered critical acclaim for its sharp writing, strong performances, and faithful adaptation of Richler’s novel. It’s a film that resonates with audiences for its humour, heart, and unflinching portrayal of a man living life on his terms.
3. “The Last Casino” (2004): A compelling exploration of the high-stakes world of gambling, specifically focusing on card counting in casinos. The plot centers around a shrewd mathematics professor who, under the weight of crippling financial woes, assembles and trains a trio of bright students to count cards and win big. The storyline unfolds with suspenseful twists and turns that keep viewers engaged, although at times it can feel a bit predictable.
The performances are commendable, particularly from Charles Martin Smith who portrays the professor with a perfect blend of desperation and cunning. The student characters, while somewhat stereotypical, are brought to life by the actors’ earnest portrayals. Despite this, the film could have benefited from deeper character development to fully flesh out their motivations and personal struggles.
In terms of awards, “The Last Casino” didn’t sweep the major ceremonies but it did garner positive reviews for its unique approach to the gambling genre and its authentic depiction of card counting.
4. “Lucky Girl” (2001): A riveting romantic drama that takes the audience on a roller-coaster rideof emotions. The plot revolves around a young woman who becomes entangled in the dangerous world of gambling, providing a compelling exploration of addiction, love, and personal transformation.
Elisha Cuthbert delivers an outstanding performance as the lead actress, deftly portraying a multi-dimensional character grappling with her addictive tendencies while striving to maintain her relationships. Her portrayal is both intense and empathetic, effectively encapsulating the emotional turmoil of her character’s journey. The supporting cast also shines, adding layers to the narrative and enhancing the overall cinematic experience.
“Lucky Girl” resonated deeply with audiences and critics, largely due to its realistic representation of addiction and its profound impact on personal relationships. The intricate character development and gripping storyline pull viewers in, making them emotionally invested in the characters’ struggles and victories.
As for accolades, “Lucky Girl” proved its mettle by winning the Gemini Award for Best TV Movie, and Elisha Cuthbert bagged the Gemini for Best Performance in a Children’s or Youth Program.
5. “Cold Deck” (2015): An intense crime drama that plunges viewers into the high-stakes world of poker. The story centers around Bobby, a down-on-his-luck gambler who decides to rob a high-stakes poker game to solve his financial woes. This pivotal decision sets off a chain of events that are both thrilling and tragic, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
Stefano Gallo delivers a compelling performance as Bobby, masterfully portraying the desperation and determination of his character. His performance is both nuanced and emotionally charged, effectively engaging viewers in Bobby’s plight. The supporting cast, including Paul Sorvino and Robert Knepper, also deliver strong performances, adding depth to the narrative and enhancing the overall cinematic experience.
Despite its low-budget origins, “Cold Deck” stands out for its tight storytelling and solid performances. The film employs several notable cinematic techniques, such as suspenseful plot twists and tense poker scenes, to keep viewers engaged. However, it also has its weaknesses, such as underdeveloped characters and a somewhat predictable plot.
“Cold Deck” did not win any major awards, but it did receive positive reviews for its engaging storyline and strong performances. This recognition serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the cast and crew in crafting a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
6. “Going for Broke” (2003): A compelling drama that offers a heart-rending exploration of the hidden struggles of gambling addiction. The narrative focuses on a single mother, portrayed with raw intensity by Delta Burke, who grapples with her escalating addiction while striving to maintain stability for her family.
Burke delivers a riveting performance, navigating the depths of her character’s despair and determination with remarkable authenticity. Her on-screen chemistry with co-star Gerald McRaney, who plays a supportive friend, enhances the emotional resonance of the film, making their shared scenes especially impactful.
The film garnered critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of addiction, earning it a deserved Prism Award for Best TV Movie or Miniseries. This accolade underscores the film’s successful endeavour to spotlight a pervasive yet often overlooked societal issue.
7. “Dead Heat” (2002): An exhilarating crime thriller that revolves around a high-stakes, cross-country horse race. The plot weaves together a web of intrigue, as two brothers find themselves embroiled in the dangerous world of organized crime, navigating through betrayals and unexpected twists.
The lead actors, Kiefer Sutherland and Anthony LaPaglia deliver riveting performances, their on-screen chemistry bringing a palpable tension to the narrative. Sutherland convincingly portrays the reckless younger brother, while LaPaglia’s portrayal of the more grounded and sensible older sibling provides a compelling contrast.
Despite its relative obscurity, “Dead Heat” was recognized for its tight plot and strong performances, with Mark Malone receiving a nomination for Best Screenplay at the Edgar Allan Poe Awards. While it didn’t drastically alter the industry landscape, it did leave an imprint as a solid entry in the crime thriller genre.
8. “Atlantic City” (1980): A wistful crime drama that offers a poignant exploration of dreams, desperation, and the decay of the American Dream. Set against the backdrop of a fading Atlantic City, the film weaves an engaging tale of an aging gangster, portrayed by Burt Lancaster, who gets a shot at redemption when he crosses paths with a young woman, played by Susan Sarandon, caught up in a drug deal gone wrong.
Both Lancaster and Sarandon deliver performances of depth and nuance, capturing the essence of their flawed yet hopeful characters. Lancaster’s portrayal of the washed-up mobster longing for his glory days is particularly compelling, while Sarandon brings a gritty determination to her role that resonates with viewers.
The film was lauded by critics and received numerous awards, including five Academy Award nominations. Among these were Best Director for Louis Malle, Best Actor for Lancaster, and Best Actress for Sarandon, underscoring the film’s exceptional performances and deft direction.
9. “Casino Jack” (2010): A riveting political drama that delves into the murky world of lobbying and corruption. The film centers around Jack Abramoff, a high-powered lobbyist in Washington D.C., whose unscrupulous methods eventually lead to his downfall.
Kevin Spacey delivers a powerhouse performance as Abramoff, masterfully portraying the lobbyist’s charm, ambition, and ruthlessness. His dynamic portrayal earned him a well-deserved Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor. The supporting cast, including Barry Pepper as Abramoff’s business partner, also shines, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
Despite its serious subject matter, “Casino Jack” is infused with dark humour, a credit to director George Hickenlooper’s deft handling of the material. Interestingly, Hickenlooper tragically passed away just weeks before the film’s release, making it his final work.
The film did not win any major awards but was recognized for its sharp screenplay, solid performances, and timely commentary on political corruption. It serves as both an entertaining drama and a thought-provoking critique of the lobbying industry, making it a must-watch for fans of political cinema.
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The bizarre story of Taro Tsujimoto

The National Hockey League (NHL) has seen its fair share of strange moments, but few compare to the bizarre and hilarious tale of Taro Tsujimoto, a player who never existed. His “selection” in the 1974 NHL Draft remains one of the most legendary pranks in hockey history. If you want to wager on actual players, making the 1xBet app download is definitely a great idea.
In the 1970s, the NHL Draft was a much less glamorous event than today. It was a tedious process conducted over the phone, with teams calling in their picks. The 3 biggest highlights of what happened during that year’s draft were:
- the draft dragged on for hours;
- there were multiple rounds and teams selecting unknown prospects from obscure leagues;
- frustrated with the monotony, Buffalo Sabres general manager Punch Imlach decided to have a little fun.
As the 11th round approached, Imlach instructed his team’s representative to draft Taro Tsujimoto, a supposed forward from the Tokyo Katanas of the Japan Ice Hockey League. The name sounded authentic enough. The league officials, unfamiliar with Japanese hockey, accepted the pick without question. By downloading the 1xBet app you will also be able to wager on great NHL teams too.
A small problem
There was a small problem with all of this, as 2 things didn’t exist: Tsujimoto and the Tokyo Katanas. Imlach had completely fabricated the player as a joke, taking advantage of the NHL’s lack of verification. When it comes to NHL wagers, there is no better platform than the 1xBet Canada site.
For weeks, the league listed Tsujimoto as an official draft pick, and even some newspapers reported on Buffalo’s mysterious new Japanese prospect. Eventually, the Sabres admitted the hoax, and the NHL was forced to retroactively erase the selection from its records.
Despite being a fictional player, Taro Tsujimoto took on a life of his own. Buffalo Sabres fans embraced the prank, and over the years, his name has become a cult legend in hockey culture. Some fans even wore jerseys with “Tsujimoto” on the back. The joke persisted so much that when EA Sports released NHL video games, players could occasionally find Tsujimoto in the game’s draft pool as a hidden Easter egg.
More than just a prank, the story of Taro Tsujimoto highlights 2 things: the quirks of old-school sports management and the creativity of one of hockey’s most colorful executives. Today, with the draft process being highly scrutinized and broadcast live, such a prank would be impossible. But Tsujimoto’s legacy lives on as one of hockey’s greatest inside jokes. What is not a joke are the great rewards that a platform like the Canadian 1xBet site can give you.
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60% of Canadians gamble each month – why the industry is going from strength to strength

When it comes to regulating gambling, Canada has a somewhat relaxed approach. The Canadian Gaming Association oversees the industry, but it’s up to individual provinces to enact and enforce any laws relating to online casino gaming, sports betting, traditional casino gaming, and other forms of gambling.
Canada’s online casino gaming laws are not totally clear, but individual provinces are starting to put this right. Ontario was the first and did so when it launched its own regulated igaming market in April 2022. Now some other provinces have followed suit, creating a safer igaming environment for players in those provinces. Below is a look at gambling in Canada compared to other parts of the world, at gaming laws in Alberta compared to other provinces, and at the future of the Canadian, US, and UK gambling industries.
Canada: a forever love of gambling
Gambling in some form or other has always been popular in Canada. Way back in the 1990s, research found six in ten Canadians (60%) gambled every month. Additionally, four in ten (43%) spent between 1 and 20 Canadian dollars on gambling. Fast forward to today and the Canadian gambling market is worth 14.2 billion US dollars as of January 2024, according to data on the website of consumer and market data company Statista.
It seems Canada enjoys wagering just as much as two other countries that love a gamble: the US and the UK. Data on the Statista website shows that 49% of US adults took part in gambling activities in 2023. Fifty-six percent said their attitude towards gambling had relaxed, compared to the 50% of 2019.
The UK returned similar stats for the same year. Forty-eight percent of adults reported engaging in gambling activity. Online casinos generated the most gross gambling yield in 2023, but it was the nation’s National Lottery that people played the most.
Alberta: following Ontario’s lead
The regulatory developments in Ontario have triggered movement in Alberta. In May 2024, Bill 16, the Red Tape Reduction Amendment Act, made it through the process and later received Royal Assent to become law. The act removes the monopoly of gaming by a single government entity and will allow private operators, licensed by Alberta’s provincial regulator, to provide online gaming services in Alberta, meaning players will have a choice of more than one Alberta online casino to play at.
The regulation transforms Alberta into one of the more liberal provinces when it comes to online gambling, others being Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia.
Several provinces, such as Novia Scotia and Northwest Territories, have no provincially regulated online gaming sites. Some also restrict betting on horse racing and/or other types of sports betting, obliging citizens to use international betting sites for freedom from caps and betting on as many events as they wish.
What lies ahead for the Canadian, US, and UK gambling industries?
Canada’s appetite for gambling is clear, and the industry’s online sector is beginning to thrive. Ontario has enjoyed vast success by creating its own regulated market, one which, in just its first year, saw Canadians place billions in wagers and the industry itself generate more than a billion in total gaming revenue.
Canada can expect to see other provinces follow Ontario’s lead and allow private operators to provide services in the province under license. The purpose of the regulation is player protection. Any province that develops a regulated market will focus on this, so there will also be regulations around the advertising of gambling services.
The US
Gambling online is the future for the US, too, although states are slow to legalize it. As of September 2024, 38 states had legalized sports betting, following the US Supreme Court’s ruling that states could regulate sports gambling directly.
Despite allowing sports betting, some states only permit in-person betting, and only a few states allow online casino gaming. Operators believe online casino gaming is the future of gambling.
The UK
In the UK, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) will get bigger and bigger. Companies have realized AI can enhance players’ experience and are embracing it more and more. For instance, sports betting websites can use it to crunch data and provide iGamers with stats and other data to make better betting decisions. They’re also understanding they can use AI to prioritize content players are likely to be interested in and to personalize their offerings and services to players’ preferences.
Canada enjoys gambling as much as America and the UK. Although laws around igaming are more of a grey area in Canada, some provinces are clearing the issue up by creating regulated markets and experiencing great success. As time goes by, more are sure to follow.
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