Underneath the glitz and glamour of flashing lights and free cocktails casinos are built on a bedrock of mathematics, engineered to slowly bleed their patrons. For years mathematically inclined physicists have tried to turn the tables, using their knowledge of probability and game theory to exploit weaknesses in a rigged system. In games with a skill element, the house edge can be reduced to near zero through proper play.
Casino, based on the non-fiction book of the same name by Nicholas Pileggi and co-written by screenwriter Steven Soderbergh, is an epic crime drama that spans decades and reaches from the seedy Tangiers and the swanky Copacabana to mob-connected politicians, Teamsters union bosses, the Chicago mafia, and mobsters from Kansas City. Featuring a virtuosic performance from Robert De Niro and a career-defining turn from Sharon Stone, the film is both a riveting history lesson and a taut thriller.
The movie is almost three hours long and never lags or runs out of steam. Unlike Goodfellas which was a bit more rushed, Casino takes its time to build characters and elicit real performances from its cast. It also has more complex relationships than Goodfellas, and the rise and fall of Sam Rothstein is a fascinating tale to watch. James Woods is a welcome addition to the cast and brings a little bit of comedy to the film in his role as Lester.