California Split (1974)

In the intoxicating world of Southern California's gambling scene, the paths of Bill Denny and Charlie Waters fatefully intersect. Bill, an occasional gambler maintaining a steady job as a magazine writer, finds himself drawn to Charlie, a charismatic, small-time gambler who thrives on portraying himself as the triumphant victor at his poker table. Their chance meeting at a gambling club, both on the receiving end of an irate fellow gambler's fury, sparks an unlikely camaraderie. As Bill immerses himself more in Charlie's world, his fascination grows, leading him to adopt aspects of Charlie's life which include fraternising with Charlie's unconventional friends - Barbara Miller and notably, Susan Peters, both of whom are prostitutes. Bill's growing obsession with the thrill of the gamble pushes him into dangerous territory as he spirals into debt with his loan shark. In a whirlwind of highs and lows, the duo experiences the exhilarating rush of winning, the despair of losing, the dread of being robbed, and the numbing oblivion of drunkenness. Their journey is not just about the games they play but the life they lead - a life that is as unpredictable as the roll of the dice or the turn of a card. In a desperate bid to break free from the shackles of debt and to experience the euphoric rush associated with winning big, Bill and Charlie embark on a daring adventure to Reno. Bill, having pawned most of his possessions, stakes everything on the poker game of a lifetime. This film, set against the backdrop of casinos and racetracks, explores the addictive allure of gambling while offering an intimate glimpse into the lives of two men caught up in its thrilling, yet treacherous, grasp.

California Split is a comedy movie featuring George Segal and directed by Robert Altman.

California Split is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

It is also possible to buy California Split on Amazon Video, Apple TV and Vudu.