Casino (Movie Review)

There have been many movies set in Las Vegas, but few capture the city’s real history quite like Casino. This epic crime drama lays bare the complicated web of corruption that centered in Sin City, with tendrils reaching out to politicians, Teamsters unions, and the Chicago mob via Kansas City, Missouri. The film was adapted by Martin Scorsese and Nicholas Pileggi from his nonfiction book Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas, and stars Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, Joe Pesci, Frank Vincent, and Don Rickles.

The first half of Casino is a whirlwind of action that builds to a massive mob hit. While it may seem like a chaotic mess at times, Scorsese uses fast cuts to give the impression of a documentary-style look to the opening sequences. This technique, along with the use of music, helps to create a sense of energy and momentum that propels the story forward.

Casino is also notable for introducing the concept of comps, or complimentary items, to casino patrons. These freebies can range from drinks to restaurant visits to hotel rooms. By giving players these perks, casinos encourage them to spend more money than they would have otherwise. This practice is known as “gambling enhancement,” and it has been shown to increase a player’s odds of winning by increasing the number of games they play.

Casino is a thrilling ride with a tremendous cast, but it’s Sharon Stone’s performance that really elevates the movie. She gives arguably her best performance, and she carries the film with an unbridled energy that is matched only by its breakneck pace.