Casino Review
Casino is a fascinating look at the history of gambling. The movie shows how organized crime used Vegas as a money-making machine, and how the mob eventually lost control of the city. It also reveals some of the psychological tactics casinos use to keep players playing and spending more money.
Unlike most movies, which portray casinos as fun and glamorous, Casino doesn’t shy away from the darker side of gambling. It lays bare the corruption that was a part of Las Vegas, with tentacles reaching into politicians, Teamsters unions and Chicago mobster families. Despite the dark theme, Casino is still a fascinating movie, and Robert De Niro’s performance as Ace Rothstein is undoubtedly one of his finest roles.
The film’s set design is beautiful, and the costumes are equally stunning. Rita Ryack did a fabulous job on the costumes, ranging from vibrant mustard yellows and electric blues to crimson blazers for Ace and white leather miniskirts and thigh-high boots for Ginger. Scorsese shot the film in real casinos, and often dressed up the prominent extras with authentic 70’s attire.
Many casinos also feature opulent decor to create a visually stimulating environment. They are often designed with a grand entrance, and offer a variety of games from traditional slots to more complex tables like blackjack and roulette. Many casinos are also renowned for their fine dining, featuring gourmet food by top chefs and excellent service. They also provide a wide range of entertainment, from live music to celebrity impersonators. In addition, they often employ strategies to encourage gambling habits by rewarding players with comps (complimentary food, drinks, rooms and other perks) based on their continued spend.