Casinos and Hollywood have a lot in common — bright lights, glamorous people, and the allure of fame and fortune. It makes sense, then, that some of Hollywood’s most memorable and well-received releases center on the world of casinos. Take a look at 5 of the best casino movies ever made and the characters that brought them to life:

Casino – 1995

This film had a big title to live up to and big-name stars like Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci and Sharon Stone to help carry it. The stars aren’t what makes the movie such a hit, though. It’s the behind-the-scenes portrayal of a mob-run casino that is so captivating. Fans on IMDB.com rank it as the most popular among all casino films. Gambling is a big part of the movie, of course, and slot machines, sports books, table games, and more are featured prominently. The movie made $116 million in the box office.

Rounders – 1998

Regarded as one of the best poker movies ever made, this Matt Damon cult classic follows a yet-unknown player as he tries to get a friend out of debt and make bankroll to enter the World Series of Poker. The authenticity is what fans praise most – from the realistic hands played to the subtle poker lingo exchanged between players. The film brought in $22.9 million at its box office release.

Casino Royale – 2006

Is there anything cooler than James Bond sitting at a poker table? This film was highly-anticipated for its introduction of modern-day Bond portrayed by Daniel Craig and the casino tie-in made him even edgy to fans. According to some critics the film could have benefitted from coaching from a poker expert because of two unrealistic card showdowns between Bond and villain Le Chiffre (portrayed by Mads Mikkelsen). Still, fans weren’t complaining. The film brought in a whopping $599 million USD and ushered in the modern-day age of Bond on the big screen.

The Gambler – 1974

This thrilling casino movie was later remade by Mark Wahlberg but it’s tough to top the original. The film follows Axel Freed (played by James Caan) and he tries to figure out how to pay back $44,000 in gambling debts. The storyline is about more than gambling, however, and delves into the psychology of addiction of all kids. Indiewire says that the film “nails the paranoia of its dark corners and the stylish seduction of winning.”

Hard Eight – 1996

This independent film is based on the Paul Thomas Anderson short film “Cigarettes and Coffee” and expands Anderson’s thoughts to full-length (he directed both). It follows John (played by John C. Reilly) as he tries to win enough in a casino to bury his recently deceased mother. Along the way he meets a hardened veteran gambler who mentors him to success – in gambling and in life. It all falls apart tragically, though, leading viewers on an emotional journey. This film was so well received because of its ability to touch on universal emotions, like grief and intimidation, and how all of that can be tied into a few hours in a casino.

Co-writer-director George Gallo, who penned “Midnight Run,” brings us the story of how Luke Wilson, with a little help from Giovanni Ribisi and Gabriel Macht, figures out that this Internet thing just might be good for showing people very naughty pictures. Since this is a movie, naturally the porn-purveying “Middle Men” get a bit more than they asked for.

Nice bit with Kelsey Grammer there at the end. Also, considering that he’s openly contemplating running for office someday, kind of gutsy. On a different note, I’d love to know the actual “true story” this apparently pretty heavily fictionalized movie is supposed to be based on. Just curious. Finally, let it be said, I hold no ill feeling against actor Gabriel Macht for the despicable and unholy desecration that was “The Spirit.” He just did what Frank Miller told him to do. I just felt like that needed to be said.

Oh, and speaking of trailers, Anne Thompson also has the trailer up for the third Narnia film. Go ahead and click, I mean, if you’re into that kind of kinky shit.