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Poker glossary

Hollywood

What it means

Hollywood means acting at the poker table to create a false impression. A player might sigh, stare at the board, ask for a count, or take extra time to make a decision they already know they are going to make.

How it works at the table

A player with the nuts might pretend to hate the river card before raising. Another player with a bluff might act relaxed and talkative to look strong. Hollywood is usually about controlling the story an opponent sees before making a decision.

Strategic context

Some acting is harmless table theater. Too much of it can become a tell. Players who only Hollywood with huge hands become easy to read, while players who delay every decision slow the game and irritate the table.

Common mistakes

The biggest mistake is overacting. Poker players notice patterns quickly. If a dramatic sigh always means strength, opponents will stop paying off. Another mistake is confusing Hollywood with legitimate tanking in a difficult spot.

Hollywood connects to tell, bluff, value bet, and showdown. It is part psychology, part timing, and part table image.