**The Casino: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Robert De Niro's Iconic Film**

Introduction

Released in 1995, "Casino" is a critically acclaimed crime drama that delves into the glamorous and treacherous world of Las Vegas casinos. Directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone, the film offers an unforgettable cinematic experience.

A Look Inside the Casino

The film follows the story of Sam "Ace" Rothstein (De Niro), a Jewish bookmaker who is hired by a Kansas City mob to oversee the operations of the Tangiers Casino in Las Vegas.

The Characters

• Sam "Ace" Rothstein: A brilliant gambler and meticulous manager who brings order to the chaotic world of the casino.
• Nicky Santoro: A ruthless enforcer and Ace's childhood friend who terrorizes the casino staff and ensures its profitability.
• Ginger McKenna: A seductive and manipulative showgirl who becomes Ace's love interest and a catalyst for disaster.

The Making of a Cinematic Masterpiece

Scorsese employed his signature filmmaking techniques in "Casino," creating a visually stunning and emotionally charged film.

Technical Brilliance

• Long, Steadicam Shots: Captivating shots that sweep through the casino, immersing the audience in the frenetic energy and opulence.
• Intense Editing: A rapid-fire editing style that heightens the tension and creates a visceral sense of urgency.
• Glitz and Glamour: The film's lavish sets and costumes evoke the over-the-top atmosphere of 1970s Las Vegas.

Themes and Symbolism

Beyond its visual prowess, "Casino" explores complex themes of greed, ambition, and the corrosive power of love.

• The American Dream: The casino represents the allure of easy wealth and success, but it ultimately becomes a symbol of corruption and decay.
• Hubris and Downfall: The characters' hubris and unchecked ambitions lead to their tragic downfalls.
• Love and Betrayal: Ginger's betrayal of Ace highlights the destructive nature of love when intertwined with greed and power.

The Impact of "Casino"

Upon its release, "Casino" received widespread critical and commercial success.

Critical Acclaim

• Academy Award Nominations: Eight nominations, including Best Director for Scorsese and Best Actor for De Niro.
• Golden Globe Wins: Best Director for Scorsese and Best Supporting Actress for Stone.
• National Board of Review Award: Best Film of the Year.

Commercial Success

• Box Office Earnings: Over $116 million worldwide.
• Home Video Sales: The film became a top-selling DVD and Blu-ray release.

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1: The Cost of Perfection

Ace's meticulous nature and relentless pursuit of control ultimately become his downfall. He becomes isolated and obsessed, losing sight of what truly matters in life.

Lesson: The pursuit of perfection can often come at a great personal cost.

Story 2: The Power of Loyalty

Nicky's unwavering loyalty to Ace, even when he knows it's not in his best interest, highlights the importance of loyalty and the consequences of betrayal.

Lesson: Loyalty is a precious trait, but it should never be blindly given.

Story 3: The Corrosive Effect of Greed

The characters' greed and ambition lead them down a path of destruction. They become willing to sacrifice their morals and relationships for the sake of money.

Lesson: Greed can have a devastating impact on both individuals and society as a whole.

Why "Casino" Matters

"Casino" stands as a timeless classic for several reasons:

• Authenticity: Scorsese's meticulous research and attention to detail create an immersive and believable portrayal of Las Vegas and its criminal underworld.
• Powerful Performances: De Niro, Pesci, and Stone deliver career-defining performances that bring the characters to life.
• Social Commentary: The film provides a poignant critique of the American dream and the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition.

Benefits of "Casino"

Watching "Casino" can provide several benefits, including:

• Entertainment: The film's thrilling plot, engaging characters, and stunning visuals provide a captivating cinematic experience.
• Education: The film offers insights into the inner workings of casinos and the often-dangerous world of organized crime.
• Self-Reflection: The film's exploration of themes such as greed, ambition, and betrayal encourages viewers to reflect on their own values and priorities.

FAQs

1. What is the real story behind "Casino"?

The film is loosely based on the true story of Frank Rosenthal, a bookmaker who oversaw several Las Vegas casinos for the Chicago Outfit.

2. Was Robert De Niro actually a casino manager?

No. De Niro studied casino operations for his role, but he did not have any prior experience in the industry.

3. What is the significance of the "Tangiers Casino" in the film?

The Tangiers Casino is a fictional location that represents the many casinos that were built and operated by organized crime figures in Las Vegas during the 1970s and 1980s.

4. Is "Casino" a true story?

The film is inspired by real events and characters, but it is not a completely accurate portrayal of history.

5. What are the themes of "Casino"?

The main themes explored in the film include greed, ambition, love, betrayal, and the American dream.

6. What are the best scenes in "Casino"?

Some of the most memorable and iconic scenes in the film include:

• The opening tracking shot through the casino.
• The beating of Nicky Santoro in the parking garage.
• The climactic confrontation between Ace and Ginger.

7. What is the most famous line in "Casino"?

The most famous line in the film is spoken by Nicky Santoro: "You don't make up for your sins in church. You do it in the streets."

8. What is the meaning of the ending of "Casino"?

The ending of the film suggests that Ace has lost everything he once had, including his love, his power, and his sanity. He is left alone and adrift in a world that has turned against him.

Tables

Table 1: Box Office Performance of "Casino"

Table 2: Critical Reception of "Casino"

Table 3: Themes Explored in "Casino"

Casino: A Glittering Tale of Corruption and Redemption with Robert De Niro

Introduction

Casino, Martin Scorsese's 1995 epic masterpiece, is a gripping and unflinching exploration of the dark underbelly of the casino industry. Led by a stellar performance from Robert De Niro, the film delves into themes of greed, power, and the destructive consequences of unbridled ambition.

The Rise and Fall of Sam "Ace" Rothstein

At the heart of the film is Sam "Ace" Rothstein (De Niro), a renowned casino manager recruited to oversee the prestigious Tangiers Casino in Las Vegas. With a reputation for his sharp mind and ruthless efficiency, Sam is initially seen as the perfect man for the job.

However, as the film progresses, we witness Sam's gradual descent into a world of corruption and excess. Seduced by the allure of power, he becomes increasingly complicit in the Tangiers' nefarious dealings, including skimming, money laundering, and shady business partnerships.

The Mob's Grip on Tangiers

Underlying the casino's facade of glamour and excitement is the sinister presence of the Chicago Outfit, a powerful crime syndicate headed by Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal (Joe Pesci). Rosenthal, a ruthless and unpredictable mobster, exerts a controlling influence over Sam and the Tangiers operation.

As Sam's involvement with the Outfit intensifies, so does the danger. The casino becomes a battleground for power struggles and vendettas, with Sam increasingly finding himself trapped in a web of deceit and violence.

Nicky Santoro: The Enforcer

Another key character in Casino is Nicky Santoro (Joe Pesci), a violent and impulsive enforcer tasked with protecting Sam and maintaining order within the Tangiers. Santoro's presence casts a shadow over the casino, as his brutal methods and volatile temper create a climate of fear and intimidation.

Santoro's presence in the film serves as a constant reminder of the dark underbelly of the casino industry and the price that can be paid for playing with the devil.

The Cost of Greed

Casino is a powerful indictment of the corrosive effects of greed and excess. Sam's relentless pursuit of power and money ultimately leads to his downfall, as he alienates those close to him and becomes consumed by the destructive forces that surround him.

The film also explores the devastating consequences of unchecked gambling addiction. Sam's wife, Ginger McKenna (Sharon Stone), becomes addicted to drugs and alcohol, spiraling into a state of self-destruction that mirrors Sam's own descent.

Redemption and Legacy

Despite the film's predominantly dark and pessimistic tone, it does offer a glimmer of hope through the character of Sam's daughter, Amy (Amy Brenneman). Amy represents the possibility of redemption and a chance to escape the cycle of violence and corruption that has consumed her family.

Casino remains a gripping and thought-provoking cinematic achievement, showcasing the masterful storytelling of Martin Scorsese and the extraordinary performances of Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone. Its themes of greed, power, and the destructive nature of vice continue to resonate with audiences today.

Key Quotes from the Film

• "You know what a loser is? A loser is someone who gives up. A loser is someone who gives in to his fears. A loser is someone who doesn't believe in himself." - Sam Rothstein

• "Do you think I'm funny?" - Henry Hill (Ray Liotta)

• "I'm a businessman. Not a gangster. I don't need to carry a gun." - Sam Rothstein

Behind the Scenes

• The film was shot on location in Las Vegas, Nevada, providing an authentic setting for the story.

• Robert De Niro spent months shadowing a real-life casino manager in preparation for his role.

• The film's soundtrack features a mix of classic rock and roll and original score by composer Paul Schrader.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Do not try to play the casino's statistical advantage. The house always wins in the long run.

• Do not chase your losses. If you lose, accept it and move on.

• Do not allow alcohol or drugs to impair your judgment when gambling. This can lead to poor decision-making.

• Do not borrow money to gamble. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.

How to Approach Casino Gambling Safely

• Set a budget for yourself and stick to it.

• Start with small bets and gradually increase them as you become more comfortable.

• Know when to walk away. If you lose your budget, do not try to chase it back.

• Take breaks throughout your session to avoid burnout and maintain focus.

• Choose games with a lower house edge to improve your chances of winning.

• Have fun! Gambling should be an enjoyable experience, not a stressful one.

Call to Action

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, please seek help. Resources such as the National Council on Problem Gambling (1-800-522-4700) and the National Gambling Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) can provide support and guidance.

Statistical Highlights

• The American Gaming Association estimated that commercial casinos in the United States generated $44.2 billion in revenue in 2021.

• Nevada remains the largest casino market in the country, accounting for 35.2% of total revenue.

• The number of casino visitors in Las Vegas has steadily increased in recent years, reaching a high of 42.3 million in 2019.

Table of Casino Revenue by State (2021)

Table of Most Popular Casino Games

Table of Casino Gambling Statistics