A movie of epic proportions, Casino lays bare the machinations of mob run casinos. This was one of the first movies to show how casino owners skimmed off untaxed profits and used them to finance their other rackets. It also shows how casino design has evolved over time to entice gamblers and keep them gambling for longer periods of time.
Its story is based on the real life of Frank “Lefty” Rosenthal who managed not just one but four casinos in Vegas in his lifetime. Although the movie takes some liberties with the truth (Lefty wasn’t a micro manager who demanded that every blueberry muffin have ten blueberries) it captures his spirit, and especially the way he treated his employees. It is also a movie about loyalty and betrayal. Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci are superb in their roles. It is also Sharon Stone’s best performance, and she plays a feisty character who will not be pushed around.
Despite being a long movie at three hours it never lags or runs out of steam. With its masterful editing and taut narration, it is a lean thriller that will hold you in rapt attention until the very end. It is a must see for any fan of crime drama and the mob. Nicholas Pileggi’s screenplay is as rich as Goodfellas and in many ways dials it up to 11. It’s a film that is sure to speak to anyone who has ever lived or wants to live the mafia lifestyle.