In Casino, Martin Scorsese has created a film that takes us beyond the glitz of Vegas and into the murky world of organized crime. This is a story of greed and corruption that doesn’t have room for heroes or heroines but instead features characters who are mired in violence, treachery, and avarice. However, the film still manages to create a sense of human tragedy for all its characters and shows us how even the most evil characters can get their comeuppance in the end.
Casino is based on the true story of Sam “Ace” Rothstein (De Niro). Sam was recruited by the Chicago Outfit to run the Tangiers Casino in Las Vegas. He was tasked with dealing with the Mafia but also had to balance his personal life with a wife and daughter. The film follows his day-to-day operations and the difficulties he faces as the Mafia’s involvement with the casino changes over time. It also details his relationship with streetwise chip hustler Ginger McKenna (Stone).
Casino is a fascinating and riveting movie that is one of the best movies about gambling in the history of cinema. Its underlying message is that gambling is not as fun or exciting as it looks in the movies and it can quickly become addictive. For this reason, it is important to set win/loss limits before you begin playing and stick to them. Moreover, avoiding alcohol while gambling can help you keep in control of your money.