Molly's Game

Molly Bloom, a talented moguls skier, holds aspirations of competing in the Olympics. Her dreams are heavily influenced by her father's strict training regimen and expectations.

During the 2002 Winter Olympics qualifying event, Molly suffers a severe injury that abruptly ends her skiing career. This unexpected turn of events forces her to reconsider her future and the life she envisioned.

Following her injury, Molly decides to pivot from law school and moves to Los Angeles. She takes up a job as a waitress in a high-end club, seeking a new direction in life.

In Los Angeles, Molly serendipitously meets Dean, an ambitious but struggling real estate developer. She becomes his office manager, which pulls her into the underground poker world he hosts.

As Molly becomes involved in Dean's underground poker games, she quickly adapts to the environment despite being a newcomer. She learns to engage players effectively for higher tips, especially aiming to impress Player X.

With her growing independence, Molly decides to start her own poker games after a fallout with Dean. She secures a penthouse and hires a team, establishing herself as a prominent figure in the underground poker scene.

As Molly's reputation skyrockets, many players, including Player X, leave Dean's games to join hers. She faces the challenge of raising the stakes to attract more wealth and maintain her new clientele.

Among her new clients is Harlan Eustice, a compulsive poker player whose reckless gambling brings tension to the games. His behavior drives competition and adds intrigue to Molly's poker nights.

Molly's ascent in the poker world attracts the attention of various criminal elements, including the Russian mafia. This dangerous interest poses significant risk and challenges for her operation.

After a series of unfortunate events, an FBI raid occurs, triggered by a betrayal from Douglas Downey. This leads to the seizure of Molly's assets and forces her to reevaluate her life choices.

In the aftermath, Molly decides to share her experiences by writing a book about her life in the underground poker world. This represents her effort to reflect on her tumultuous journey and reclaim her narrative.

Molly's past catches up with her as she faces federal charges for running illegal gambling operations. She hires attorney Charlie Jaffey to help navigate the legal complexities and assert her side of the story.

While striving to defend herself, Molly also attempts to mend her fractured relationship with her father, Larry. Despite their attempts, the strain of her legal issues complicates their relationship further.

Amidst intense negotiations, Molly is offered a plea deal but chooses to decline it. She fears that accepting the deal would have negative repercussions for her poker players, demonstrating her loyalty to them.

In the end, the judge decides on Molly's fate, acknowledging her lack of serious offenses. She receives a sentence of community service, probation, and a hefty fine, thus closing a significant chapter of her life.