When the movie Casino was released back in 1986 it was a huge hit and a big departure from Scorsese’s previous mob movies. It was a gangster movie without the usual good guys, just greed and corruption. It was a human tragedy that resonated with viewers who saw the lives of the main characters crumble due to their own poor choices.
There are no good guys in this film, only greedy, corrupt characters who have a hard time not taking advantage of others. This is a key point that makes the film even more dramatic, because you can see how these people’s decisions lead to their downfall. The film is very believable and the performances by Sharon Stone and Robert De Niro are outstanding.
Casino is not just a gangster film, it’s also a history lesson about Vegas. It shows how the mafia once controlled a city that was minting money in billions, and then it gave way to big gambling corporations. It’s a fascinating look at the past, but still has relevance today.
Casino is one of the most layered films by Scorsese, with many characters and many plots woven together. The result is a three hour thriller that never lags, thanks to the masterful editing and taut narration. It is also the first of Scorsese’s movies to focus on a female character, and Sharon Stone delivers an unforgettable performance. Her scene with Joe Pesci is a high point of the movie, as they struggle to control their emotions in the face of danger and betrayal.