Casino is Martin Scorsese’s mafia epic that makes you feel like you stumbled into a secret world without anyone knowing you were there. Its brutal honesty and stark depiction of the mob’s relationship with Las Vegas still resonate even for those who don’t gamble or know much about wiseguy culture.
While the movie focuses on the seedy backroom gambling parlors that most people would prefer to avoid it also shows the benefits of larger casinos. They bring in people who would otherwise not be spending their money in the community and create jobs that support local businesses. They also provide a safe environment where people can eat, see live entertainment, or play the slots and other games. This is a big part of why casinos are so popular with both visitors and employees.
The film is based on the true story of Sam “Ace” Rothstein (Robert De Niro) and Nicky Santoro (Joe Pesci). While Ace was a smart businessman who understood how to make the most money out of his casinos, Nicky was more of a wild card often making bad decisions that led to his downfall.
The film begins with a fast-cut, documentary style that quickly evolves into more of an action movie. This is done so smoothly that the viewer barely notices. Unlike many other films that focus on the glamour of casino life this one digs deeper than the surface and lays bare the city’s dark past while still showcasing the opulence and neon signs.