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High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story is a 2003 biopic which revolves around the life of Stu Ungar, an American poker and gin player. Several celebrities from the worlds of professional poker and athletics, such as Vince Van Patten, Andy Glazer and Al Bernstein made brief appearances in the movie, which was filmed in several locations, including Nashville, Columbia and Las Vegas.
The film, rumoured to have been shot in less than 25 days, was well-received and earned several awards, including the PRISM Awards Commendation (2004). It also won the 2003 Nashville Film Festival Audience Choice Award under the Best Feature category. The Stu Ungar Story was also listed as the 2003 San Diego Film Festival Award winner under the Best Director Category.
Vincent Mentors Stu
High Roller is narrated via flashback by Stu himself. He divulges how his father, Vincent, who worked at a club, introduced him to gambling. Stu divulges how Vincent mentored him and always came to his aid whenever he needed support. He highlights his journey as a tournament gin and poker player. Despite being an expert in both games, he also enjoys betting on horses and sports.
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Stu’s Love Interest
After Stu feels he’s of age, he gains a love interest in Angela, whom he eventually marries. However, their relationship was a bit shaken by the challenges Stu faced, but they later reunited. Stu participates in a Gin Rummy tournament in Las Vegas and also competes in other poker competitions, including the World Series of Poker and No Limit Texas Hold’Em.
Stu has a daughter with Angela, Nicole, to whom he is devoted despite his previous career difficulties resurfacing. The situation gets tough, and Angela has to raise her daughter somewhere else. At the film’s end, Stu seems to be back on back on his feet, participating in World Series of Poker 16 years after his last successful engagement. In the final scene, he leaves the motel room with a stranger, representing the Grim Reaper.
Very good list, i’d also add Ocean's Eleven & High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story to it
— Mikey007 /טוביה בן יהודה (Toviyah Ben Yehuda) (@Mikey007007) July 18, 2023
Main Cast
High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story stars Michael Imperioli, as Stu, plus Michael Nouri as Vincent, who adopts Stu at a tender age. Playing as Antony, Steve Schirippa takes the role of Stu’s loyal friend, while Renee Faia plays Angela, Stu’s eventual wife. This low-budget film was written and directed by AW Vidmer and distributed by New Line Cinema in 2003.
In conclusion, High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story is a compelling biopic that skillfully captures the highs and lows of Stu Ungar’s dynamic life. Michael Imperioli’s standout performance and the film’s intense poker sequences and non-linear storytelling make it a gripping exploration that keeps viewers engaged.