In this Cinemental episode, we go all-in on Rounders, the cult-classic that turned every college dorm room into a late-night poker den — even though, let’s be honest, it’s not actually a great poker movie. We dive into why the film’s real stakes aren’t in the cards but in the choices: addiction, loyalty, and learning when to fold not just your hand, but a toxic friendship.

Matt Damon’s Mike McDermott and Edward Norton’s Worm show us the thrill and the danger of chasing losses — financial and emotional. We unpack how Rounders became a cultural revolution for poker while serving as a cautionary tale about risk, recovery, and identity. If you’ve ever been tempted by “just one more hand,” this episode’s for you.

🎧 Listen as we break down gambling addiction, codependent friendship, and how sometimes the smartest play is knowing when to walk away.
1:18 - Rounders premise and plot
1:58 - Topics for this episode
4:02 - Rounders full summary
6:03 - A word from our sponsor
6:40 - The psychology of gambling
9:14 - Why are certain people wired to be addicted to the hit
10:24 - Why didn't Matt go on TILT in the beginning?
12:24 - Is Mike actually a gambling addict?
14:17 - Pot Committal
16:22 - short end
17:12 - PJ Brown Tribute Bonus
18:40 - breaking up with a lifelong friend
22:15 - The loan from Mike's professor
24:09 - The final game
25:12 - Rounders WAS NOT a good poker movie

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