Casino (Movie Review)

After the massive success of Goodfellas, Martin Scorsese followed up with Casino, a film that delved into the underbelly of a desert city minting money in billions. Featuring two of the actors who played the mob’s top men, Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci, Casino is a riveting thriller that lays bare the seedy underworld of casinos.

Amid all the flashing lights and free cocktails, casinos are rigged to slowly drain their patrons of cash. Casino games like blackjack, roulette, and video poker all have mathematically determined odds that ensure the house will always have a built-in advantage. For players who want to beat the system, there are a few tricks that can be employed, but in most cases, the best strategy is to simply avoid gambling altogether.

But for those who can’t resist the lure of a twinkly lit room and the prospect of a quick score, here are some things to keep in mind before you head down to the casino floor. First and foremost, it’s a good idea to start with a set amount of money you can comfortably afford to lose. This will help you stay in control and not let your emotions or your bankroll get out of hand.

While most movies focus on Vegas opulence and weekend getaways, this epic crime drama digs much deeper into the seedy underbelly of a gambling empire and its past ties to organized crime. The result is a riveting thriller that features an excellent performance from Robert De Niro and an equally great one from Joe Pesci as Nicky and Sam, respectively.