Rounders

Rounders

Year: 1998

Runtime: 121 min

Language: English

Director: John Dahl

Drama

Haunted by his past as a professional gambler, Mike McDermott attempts to leave the poker world behind. However, when his former friend, Worm, finds himself indebted to a dangerous Russian gangster named Teddy "KGB," Mike is drawn back into the high-stakes game to help him pay off a substantial debt. Navigating a world of cunning players and ruthless consequences, Mike must confront his own demons and risk everything to help his friend.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Rounders yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Rounders (1998)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Rounders (1998). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film is set in a contemporary period, reflecting the late 1990s and early 2000s when poker was gaining nationwide popularity through televised tournaments. This era saw a rise in underground gambling, particularly in urban environments like New York City, shaping the landscape of competitive poker.

Location

New York City

New York City serves as the backdrop for Mike's tumultuous journey through the high-stakes world of poker. Known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse culture, NYC is a hub for gamblers seeking fortune and excitement. The city’s clandestine poker rooms reflect the thrill and danger of the gambling lifestyle.

🌆 City 🎲 Gambling

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:05

Main Characters – Rounders (1998)

Meet the key characters of Rounders (1998), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Mike McDermott (Matt Damon)

Mike is a gifted poker player torn between his passion for the game and his responsibilities as a law student. His charisma and intelligence guide him through both the poker tables and his interpersonal relationships. However, his naivety sometimes draws him back into risky situations, particularly due to his loyalty to Worm and the allure of high-stakes poker.

🃏 Poker Player 📚 Aspiring Lawyer

Lester "Worm" Murphy (Edward Norton)

Worm is Mike's charismatic yet reckless childhood friend who recently returned from prison. His influence pulls Mike back into the risks of gambling, showcasing both his charm and the negative consequences of his lifestyle. Worm's overwhelming debts and manipulative tactics create a tension that challenges Mike's values and decisions.

🎭 Charismatic 💰 Reckless

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:05

Major Themes – Rounders (1998)

Explore the central themes of Rounders (1998), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🃏 Deception

Deception plays a crucial role in the world of poker and this film. Characters are often forced to navigate lies and manipulation, whether at the table or in their personal lives. The tension between honesty and deceit underscores Mike's struggles as he tries to maintain his integrity amidst peer pressure and financial desperation.

⚖️ Choices

The theme of choices is central to Mike's story, as he grapples with personal and ethical dilemmas. His decision to pursue poker instead of law school signifies a turning point in his life. The consequences of his choices, especially regarding loyalty and ambition, lead to both setbacks and redemption.

💔 Relationships

The dynamics of relationships are a driving force in Mike's narrative, particularly his bond with Jo and the tumultuous friendship with Worm. Their interactions highlight the emotional stakes involved in his choices, revealing how gambling affects not just financial well-being but also personal connections.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:05

Unlock the Full Story of Rounders

Don't stop at just watching — explore Rounders in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Rounders is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Rounders Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Rounders, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Rounders Summary

Rounders Timeline

Track the full timeline of Rounders with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Rounders Timeline

More About Rounders

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Rounders: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Rounders

Similar Movies to Rounders

Discover movies like Rounders that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.