Robert De Niro's Casino: A Masterclass in Moviemaking

Introduction

Robert De Niro's iconic performance in Martin Scorsese's 1995 crime epic "Casino" cemented his status as one of the greatest actors of all time. The film, based on the real-life experiences of Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal, depicts the rise and fall of a powerful casino executive in Las Vegas. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the multifaceted brilliance of "Casino," examining its captivating plot, unforgettable characters, and groundbreaking cinematography.

A Gripping and Unforgettable Story

At its core, "Casino" is a gripping and unforgettable story of greed, power, and betrayal. De Niro delivers a tour-de-force performance as Sam "Ace" Rothstein, a brilliant casino manager who becomes entangled in a web of corruption, violence, and addiction. The film follows Rothstein's rise to prominence as he transforms the seedy Tangiers Casino into a glittering Las Vegas landmark. However, his ambition and trust in the wrong people soon lead to his downfall.

A Cast of Unforgettable Characters

"Casino" boasts an ensemble cast of unforgettable characters, each portrayed with meticulous precision by a stellar group of actors.

• Sam "Ace" Rothstein (Robert De Niro): A brilliant and ambitious casino manager, Rothstein's life spirals out of control as he battles addiction and the looming threat of betrayal.
• Nicky Santoro (Joe Pesci): A violent and unpredictable mobster, Santoro serves as Rothstein's enforcer, using his brutal tactics to keep the casino under control.
• Ginger McKenna (Sharon Stone): A glamorous and manipulative drifter, Ginger becomes Rothstein's wife, using her charms to manipulate him and his empire.
• Armand Lemelson (Kevin Pollak): A slick and cunning accountant, Lemelson embezzles millions of dollars from the casino, setting off a chain of events that leads to Rothstein's demise.

Groundbreaking Cinematography

"Casino" is renowned for its innovative and groundbreaking cinematography, which perfectly captures the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas while also delving into the dark and seedy underbelly of the city.

• Long, Sweeping Shots: Scorsese uses long, sweeping shots to create a sense of grandeur and opulence, showcasing the vastness and extravagance of the casino environment.
• Neon-Lit Nighttime Scenes: The film's nighttime scenes are illuminated by a vibrant and mesmerizing array of neon lights, casting an otherworldly glow on the characters and their surroundings.
• Close-Up Intros: Each main character is introduced with a close-up shot, an intimate technique that draws viewers into their private lives and motivations.

Effective Strategies for Watching and Understanding "Casino"

To fully appreciate the brilliance of "Casino," it is beneficial to employ the following strategies:

• Analyze the Characters: Pay close attention to the motivations and relationships between the characters. Their complexities and interactions drive the plot and provide insights into human nature.
• Note the Historical Context: The film is based on real-life events, so understanding the historical context can enhance your appreciation for the story.
• Mind the Symbolism: Scorsese uses symbolism to convey deeper meanings. For example, the casino itself represents both wealth and corruption, while the dice symbolize chance and fate.

Tips and Tricks for Enjoying "Casino" to the Fullest

• Immerse Yourself in the Setting: Use the film's attention to detail to create a fully immersive experience. Pay attention to the costumes, sets, and soundtrack to fully appreciate the atmosphere.
• Watch for the Subtext: Many scenes in "Casino" contain subtle clues and hidden meanings. Pay attention to the dialogue and body language to uncover the underlying tensions and relationships.
• Take Your Time: Don't rush through the film. Allow yourself to absorb the story, character development, and cinematic artistry. The longer you spend with it, the deeper your appreciation will be.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Watching "Casino"

• Expecting a Fast-Paced Action Film: While "Casino" contains its fair share of violence and tension, it is not a fast-paced action film. It is a character-driven drama that explores the complexities of human behavior.
• Overlooking the Supporting Cast: While De Niro's performance is rightfully lauded, don't overlook the equally brilliant supporting cast. Pesci, Stone, and Pollak deliver standout performances that elevate the film to new heights.
• Judging Characters Too Quickly: The characters in "Casino" are flawed and often contradictory. Avoid judging them too quickly. Allow their actions and motivations to unfold over the course of the film.

Box Office Performance and Critical Acclaim

"Casino" was a moderate box office success, grossing over $116 million worldwide. However, it received widespread critical acclaim, with many critics hailing it as a masterpiece. The film was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for De Niro.

Robert De Niro's Legacy and "Casino's" Impact

Robert De Niro's performance in "Casino" solidified his status as one of the greatest actors of his generation. The film cemented his reputation for portraying complex and morally ambiguous characters. "Casino" also had a significant impact on the film industry, influencing subsequent crime dramas and setting new standards for cinematography and storytelling.

Conclusion

"Casino" is a cinematic masterpiece that combines a gripping story, unforgettable characters, and groundbreaking cinematography. Robert De Niro's iconic performance as Sam "Ace" Rothstein is a testament to his extraordinary talent. By employing effective strategies, embracing tips and tricks, and avoiding common mistakes, viewers can fully appreciate the brilliance of this cinematic tour-de-force. "Casino" is a film that will continue to captivate and intrigue audiences for generations to come.

Table 1: Academy Award Nominations for "Casino"

Table 2: Box Office Performance of "Casino"

Table 3: Critical Reception of "Casino"

Robert De Niro's Casino: A Guide to the Golden Age of Gambling

In the glitzy world of Las Vegas in the 1970s and 1980s, amidst the rise of mega-resorts and the allure of high-stakes gambling, emerged a towering figure who would forever leave his mark on the city's history: Robert De Niro.

De Niro's portrayal of Sam "Ace" Rothstein in the iconic film "Casino" (1995) cemented his status as one of the greatest actors of all time. Drawing inspiration from the real-life mobster Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal, De Niro delivered a mesmerizing performance that brought to life the glamour, greed, and violence that defined the casino era.

The Pinnacle of Casino History

The film "Casino" stands as a testament to the golden age of gambling in Las Vegas. Between 1970 and 1990, the city witnessed an unprecedented boom in casino construction and revenue. By the early 1990s, Las Vegas had become the entertainment capital of the world, attracting millions of visitors and generating billions of dollars in annual revenue.

Key Figures:

• In 1970, Las Vegas had just over 30 casinos. By 1990, that number had soared to over 100.
• The revenue generated by Las Vegas casinos increased from $560 million in 1970 to over $5 billion in 1990.
• The city's population nearly doubled during this period, from 250,000 to over 450,000.

Table 1: Growth of Las Vegas Casinos and Revenue

Robert De Niro's Role in Casino History

De Niro's portrayal of Ace Rothstein in "Casino" was based on the real-life Frank Rosenthal, a close associate of mobster Tony Spilotro and a key figure in the Las Vegas casino scene of the 1970s and 1980s. Rosenthal's story offers a glimpse into the dangerous and often violent world of casino gambling at the time.

De Niro's Transformation:

• De Niro gained 35 pounds for the role and underwent extensive research, including spending time with Rosenthal in prison.
• The actor's performance is praised for its realism, capturing Rosenthal's mannerisms, speech patterns, and emotional turmoil.
• De Niro's portrayal earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

Table 2: The Mob's Influence on Las Vegas Casinos

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Casino Gambling

Despite the allure of big wins, casino gambling can be a treacherous endeavor. To increase your chances of success, it's crucial to avoid these common pitfalls:

• Chasing Losses: Never try to recoup your losses by betting more money.
• Betting on Unfamiliar Games: Stick to games you understand and have a strategy for.
• Drinking Alcohol: Alcohol can impair your judgment and lead to impulsive decisions.
• Ignoring Bankroll Management: Set a budget and stick to it. Don't bet more than you can afford to lose.
• Falling for Scams: Be aware of common casino scams, such as card counting and dice manipulation.

Table 3: Tips for Winning at Casino Games

A Step-by-Step Approach to Casino Success

Follow these steps to maximize your chances of a successful casino experience:

1. Set a Budget: Determine how much money you're willing to lose before you start gambling.
2. Choose Games Wisely: Select games with lower house edges and a strategy you understand.
3. Learn Basic Strategy: Study the rules and strategies for the games you're playing.
4. Manage Your Bankroll: Track your wins and losses and adjust your bets accordingly.
5. Take Breaks: Step away from the tables regularly to rest and clear your head.
6. Leave When You're Ahead: Don't overstay your welcome. Leave the casino when you've reached your winnings goal.

FAQs about Robert De Niro's Casino

1. Is "Casino" a true story?

Yes, the film is based on the real-life experiences of Frank Rosenthal, a Las Vegas casino executive who was involved with the mob.

2. How much weight did Robert De Niro gain for the role?

De Niro gained 35 pounds for the role of Ace Rothstein.

3. Was "Casino" a critical and commercial success?

Yes, the film received critical acclaim and was a box office success. It was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Actor for De Niro.

4. Who directed "Casino"?

The film was directed by Martin Scorsese, who had previously worked with De Niro on "Mean Streets" and "Taxi Driver."

5. What is the most iconic scene in "Casino"?

The assassination scene in which Rothstein's car is bombed is considered one of the most iconic scenes in the film.

6. What is the meaning of the phrase "the house always wins"?

The phrase means that in the long run, the casino will always make more money than the players.

Conclusion

Robert De Niro's portrayal of Ace Rothstein in "Casino" remains a timeless classic, capturing the glamour, greed, and violence that defined the golden age of Las Vegas gambling. By understanding the history of this era and avoiding common pitfalls, you can increase your chances of having a successful and enjoyable casino experience.

So, whether you're a seasoned gambler or a newcomer, remember to play responsibly, manage your bankroll, and enjoy the thrill of the game. And as Ace Rothstein famously said, "The house always wins, but sometimes they let you cash in a few chips."