Casino is Martin Scorsese’s epic, sweeping film about gambling and mob power in Sin City. From the opening sequence, which echoes Goodfellas’ Copacabana interlude, Casino is not just about the casino business, it’s about what casinos represent in our lives and how they evolve over time.
A modern casino is like an indoor amusement park for adults, with the majority of the entertainment coming from games of chance. Slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker are just some of the many popular games that rake in billions of dollars each year for casinos. But gambling isn’t the only way to have fun in a casino, as the social aspect of visiting and meeting new people is also enjoyable.
This was the first film to depict the intricacies of a real-world casino, bringing to life the fast-paced machinations of the gambling world. The use of fast cuts and stylized documentary footage creates an entertaining behind-the-scenes look at the casino industry.
The cast of Casino is stellar, led by Robert De Niro’s powerful performance as gangster Sam Rothstein and the stunning Sharon Stone as his blonde sidekick Ginger McKenna. Joe Pesci is excellent as the volatile, ruthless Nicky Santoro. Costume designer Rita Ryack and assistant director John Dunn create a wealth of tacky 1970s period details, from crimson blazers to cocktail dresses and even tackier white leather miniskirts for Ginger. The entire picture brims with energy and pacing that keeps you on the edge of your seat.