Poker has been steadily gaining in popularity over the past decade. Many big name Hollywood actors and actresses have been seen entering poker tournaments in Las Vegas and L.A. So it was only a matter of time before poker hit the big screen again.

Lucky You revolves around the romance of Huck Cheever (played By Eric Bana), a poker pro with issues and the big-hearted singer from Bakersfield, Billie Offer (played by Drew Barrymore). The story is set against the backdrop of the 2003 World Series of Poker. Here, Cheever tends to let his skills take a back seat at the poker table to his emotions particularly when facing his father, L.C. Cheever played by Robert Duvall. From there, the Warner Bros. description of the film says it all,If Huck is going to wein Billie’s heart, he must learn to play cards the way he has been living and live his life the way he plays cards.”

Lucky You is poised to take up the mantle of best poker movie from Rounders. Too many movies which contain poker scenes scripted for only for the drama. With monster hands that an eight year old could win with (e.g., Casino Royale). As a poker fanatic, this was the perfect project for the Oscar-winning, director Curtis Hanson. Hanson also directed LA Confidential and 8 Mile. His production company is even called Deuce Three (Hopefully Wild Bluff can do as well). LX TV recently did an exclusive interview with Curtis Hanson about Lucky You. The poker scenes in this movie are based on hands Hanson has played. With the able assistance of poker legend Doyle Brunson who acted as the poker consultant for this movie, you know the play will not only be dramatic but realistic as well.

The list of poker pros who have a cameo in the film reads like a who’s who list from the world of poker. Anyone who has watched the World Poker Tour more than once will recognize most of these names. They include, Antonio Esfandiari, Sammy Farha, Chris “Jesus” Ferguson, Johnny Chan, Ted Forrest, Phil Helmuth, Barry Greenstein, Dan Harrington, John Juanda, Erick Lindgren, Daniel Negreanu, and Erik Seidel. In addition to acting as the film’s poker consultant Doyle Brunson also has a cameo. Jennifer Harman actually has a significant part in the film.

In addition to being a great poker film, Lucky You is an Lucky You is a great movie for couples because there is something for everyone. Guys will like the poker and women will enjoy the romance.