When it comes to telling stories about criminals, few directors have the same level of expertise as Martin Scorsese. From corrupt Wall Street financiers to Chicago mobsters to a deranged would-be assassin, his films touch on a wide range of topics. But none have captured the mob underworld of Las Vegas as well as Casino, a film that is both entertaining and educational.
The movie stars Robert De Niro as Sam “Ace” Rothstein, a Jewish American gambling expert and handicapper who is hired to run the Tangiers Casino and Hotel for the mafia elders back East. He brings in his best friend from the old neighborhood, Joe Pesci as Nicky Santoro, and Sharon Stone as Ginger McKenna, a blonde chip hustler. The relationship between these two is one of the more interesting parts of the film, as they are at odds with each other and end up having a very complicated relationship.
Casino also demonstrates some of the advances in technology that have been made in casinos over the years. For example, the use of “chip tracking” enables them to oversee bets minute-by-minute and quickly discover any statistical deviation from expected results. Also, roulette wheels are regularly monitored electronically to ensure that they are within tolerances set by the state.
Despite being three hours long, Casino never feels bloated or overlong. The script and editing are taut, the acting is superb, and the film is compelling throughout. It is an incredibly interesting movie that is sure to please anyone who enjoys crime drama or Las Vegas history.