Watch Now Place Your Bets: The History of Sports Betting in America

Now Place Your Bets: The History of Sports Betting in America is an incredibly informative and well-produced documentary that provides an in-depth look at the evolution of sports betting in the United States. Narrated by Trip Mitchell, the movie takes us on a journey through the decades, tracing the roots of sports betting all the way back to the early days of organized sports. We learn about some of the earliest bookmakers and how they operated, as well as the various methods that were used to place bets in the pre-digital age.

From there, the documentary delves into the changes that occurred in the industry over the years, including the introduction of online betting and the rise of sports gambling in Las Vegas. We get a sense of how sports betting became more popular and more accepted, despite the various political and social hurdles that stood in its way.

The documentary also touches on some of the darker aspects of sports gambling, including the impact it can have on individuals and the various scandals that have arisen over the years. The movie certainly doesn't shy away from these issues, but it also doesn't dwell on them unnecessarily.

Throughout the movie, we hear from a variety of experts and insiders in the world of sports betting, including former bookmakers, journalists, and historians. Their insights and perspectives help to paint a rich and detailed picture of this complex and fascinating industry.

One particularly interesting aspect of the movie is its exploration of the various cultural and societal factors that have influenced the popularity of sports betting over the years. We learn about how the rise of organized crime in the 20th century played a role, as well as the ways in which sports betting has been tied to broader issues like economic inequality and social justice.

Another standout feature of Now Place Your Bets is its attention to detail. The movie covers a tremendous amount of ground, but it never feels rushed or superficial. Instead, it provides a meticulously researched and comprehensive look at the history of sports betting in America.

Throughout the movie, we also get to know some of the key figures in the world of sports betting, such as legendary Las Vegas bookmaker Jimmy Vaccaro and professional gambler Billy Walters. These individuals add a human touch to the movie, making it easier to relate to and understand the bigger picture of the industry.

Overall, Now Place Your Bets: The History of Sports Betting in America is a thoroughly engaging and informative documentary that anyone with an interest in sports, gambling, or American culture will enjoy. Its expertly crafted storytelling and attention to detail make it a must-watch for anyone curious about the history of this fascinating industry.

Now Place Your Bets: The History of Sports Betting in America is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes.