Bingo, although stereotypically associated with the older generations, is still a much loved pastime and is now increasing in popularity thanks to the growth of the online industry and modern reinventions of the game. With an upsurge of young followers, coupled with a wealth of games, offers and online bingo bonuses, the industry is thriving in 2016.
In fact, such is the game’s influence, that it has also become a staple in modern culture. Whether it be for humour, politics or just to set the scene, bingo proves to be a popular choice amongst today’s film and TV directors.
Rampage
Rampage is a 2009 mass murder thriller which received a cult following. Despite its apparent gruesome plot, the bingo scene in Rampage is rather humorous. The movie is about a boy filled with hatred at the world and decides to take his anger out by going on a killing spree.
Equipped with a Kevlar suit and an arsenal of weapons, he embarks on his rampage and comes across a bingo hall. The hitman wanders around the bingo hall seemingly unnoticed as no players appear to pay attention to his presence, instead immersed in their game at hand. Leaving his plethora of weapons on the able, he takes a ball from the bingo caller and shouts it out, it is only then he is noticed but still, people continue to play despite the new caller’s sudden armor suit and rifle. He leaves without harming anyone deciding the players are close to death anyway. The scene is said to be portraying the high levels of concentration bingo requires.
Bad Grandpa
Bad Grandpa is the fourth installment of the Jackass film series and makes for a hilarious movie. The Bad Grandpa, unsurprisingly the protagonist of the movie, is preparing to take part in a game on bingo, with the fellow participants oblivious to the hidden cameras. The prankster grandpa makes some inappropriate remarks and disgusts bingo fans by drinking bingo fluid.
His continuous ill-suited force fellow bingo-goers to move tables and is a scene that will leave you cringing for the poor unsuspecting gamers. A definite must watch for fans of senseless humor.
The Babadook
Much like Rampage, Babadook is one of the darker films which uses bingo as part of its plot. The psychological thriller tells the story of troubled widow Amelia. She works in a care home which represents the mundaneness of her life. Amelia calls a bingo game for the residents in an attempt to liven things up, however, her attempts often see her being reprimanded which is a representation of her place in society.
Better Call Saul
Better Call Saul, the spin-off prequel for the successful Breaking Bad crime drama, also features a bingo scene. The scene is rather poignant as it allows him the motivation he needs to make some changes in his life.
Seeing Saul call a game of bingo is rather unusual but necessary, not only does it reveal an endearing side to his character but it also allows him to get a lot off his chest as it leads him a rant at the puzzled patrons at the retirement home.