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SK Global is making a movie about the legendary story of Ivey's baccarat winnings.
In the poker world, everyone has heard about the high-profile case between Phil Ivey, Cheung Yin "Kelly" Sun the Borgata Casino, and the Crockfords Club. On our blog, we have also discussed the details of the story [3] several times, including the high-stakes baccarat sessions, the edge-sorting technique, and the lawsuits [4] as well.
However, a story of this caliber also reached the mainstream media and apparently inspired movie producers too. Considering the cinematic nature of the whole story it comes as no surprise that SK Global co-CEO John Penotti announced, they would create a movie, "The Baccarat Machine" about the story starring Nora "Awkwafina" Lum.
“We can’t think of a better way to start this project than by announcing that our friend Awkwafina has come on board,” Penotti said. “She is uniquely equipped to bring Kelly to life onscreen and will infuse the role with genuine humor and humanity. Along with our partners at Sharp, we’re thrilled to bring this unbelievable story to the screen.”
[5]
Lum is an American actress, comedian, writer, producer, and rapper. She won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical, becoming the first woman of Asian descent to win a Golden Globe in any lead actress film category. Awkwafina currently stars in Comedy Central's Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens, which she writes and executive produces.
According to an article [6] by variety.com Andy Bellin is currently writing the script. Producers are in talks with potential directors and additional casting will be announced shortly. It's unknown who will play Phil Ivey, or if the court case will have any role in the movie.
