What makes a great documentary?
Is it the subject matter, the source of the film that sets it apart? Is it the method by which it is filmed and narrated, with the production as important as the story being told? Certainly, the latter is hugely important, and a good documentary can become great if it is handled correctly. Week in, week out here on Documentary Weekly, we review films made on a variety of subjects that interest, excite and in some instances terrify. One thing is for certain, a great documentary only becomes such if the story being told is of interest. That means finding people, events or situations that have not previously been explored, and taking them to the next level.
The world of poker has spawned plenty of films over the last few years, looking at people and places from history, as well as the origins of the game. It is a game that has inspired Hollywood blockbusters, such as Molly's Game, but away from the high stakes and famous names, there is an industry that many people simply do not understand. Many filmmakers have tried to bring that world alive for a mainstream audience, but only a few have succeeded with a quality, informative and engaging production. With so many poker documentaries out there, how can you choose which to view?
We have selected three which examine aspects of the poker world, both online and in casinos, as well as one of the biggest stars of the felt. All three give a fascinating glimpse into a life far removed from the normal nine to five, and the pitfalls that accompany those all-consuming highs. Enjoy.
Bet Raise Fold: The Story of Online Poker
by Ryan Firpo
Online poker, and indeed online casinos are big business in 2021. The deregulation happening across the United States has led to numerous providers being able to set up and offer services, and competition is fierce. Tux Slots’ online casino reviews help players decide where to play and which providers offer the best games, but one thing is almost always assured in 2021: safety. That was not always the case, and Bet Raise Fold explores the early days of the poker boom, from Chris Moneymaker’s win at the 2003 WSOP to the Black Friday crash. This is a fascinating glimpse into the early origins of today’s booming online gaming industry.
All In: The Poker Movie
by Douglas Tirola
All In: The Poker Movie is another documentary about the poker boom, which started back in 2003. Unlike Bet Raise Fold, it has interviews with some of today’s top players, and even with stars such as Matt Damon. Damon is a keen poker player, and a man partly responsible for the poker boom thanks to his role in iconic card flick Rounders. It was not a huge hit when it was released, but All In: The Poker Movie was. It won Best Documentary at Cinevegas Film festival, as it explored Moneymaker’s win, as well as the subsequent collapse and rebirth of the industry. The themes are very much the same as the first film but also explores how the sport became a TV sensation.
One of a Kind: The Rise and Fall of Stu Ungar
by Peter Franchella
Stu Ungar was a poker player of unrivalled success in his career, winning back-to-back WSOP Main Event championships in 1980 and 1981, as well as a comeback event in 1997. Away from the felt he was a troubled soul, and his life spiraled into personal tragedy, resulting in his early death in 1998. This is not the only film about the legendary player, High Roller from 2003 explored his life, but there is something compelling about One of a Kind. Red Line Film’s documentary was the winner of the Sports Emmy Award for Best Documentary and Outstanding Writing and rightly so, as it delves deeply into the world of a true star of the cards.
