Detailed Summary
Introduction and Setting
Casino is a 1995 American epic crime film directed by Martin Scorsese and written by Scorsese and Nicholas Pileggi, based on Pileggi’s nonfiction book Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas. The film stars Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci. Set in Las Vegas during the 1970s and early 1980s, the film explores the complex relationships and power struggles involved in the operation of a casino controlled by the mob.
The Story Unfolds
The Rise of Ace Rothstein
Sam “Ace” Rothstein (Robert De Niro) is a gambling expert chosen by the Chicago mob to run the Tangiers Casino in Las Vegas. With his meticulous management style, Ace quickly turns the Tangiers into a highly profitable operation. However, Ace’s methods and his insistence on maintaining control create tensions with the mob bosses who appointed him.
Nicky Santoro’s Arrival
Ace’s childhood friend, Nicky Santoro (Joe Pesci), arrives in Las Vegas to protect Ace and the casino’s interests. Nicky’s violent and erratic behavior soon draws unwanted attention, complicating Ace’s efforts to maintain a low profile. Nicky’s increasing recklessness and his own ambitions lead to conflicts with both the mob and law enforcement.
The Climax and Resolution
Ginger McKenna
Ace falls in love with and marries Ginger McKenna (Sharon Stone), a glamorous but troubled hustler. Ginger’s ongoing relationship with her former lover, Lester Diamond (James Woods), and her escalating drug and alcohol abuse strain her marriage to Ace. Ginger’s instability becomes a major source of tension and ultimately contributes to Ace’s downfall.
The Downfall
As the FBI begins to investigate the casino’s operations, Ace’s relationship with the mob deteriorates. Nicky’s violent actions and Ginger’s betrayal further destabilize the situation. The combined pressures of law enforcement, internal betrayals, and personal conflicts lead to the eventual collapse of the casino’s empire.
The Conclusion
The End of an Era
Casino concludes with Ace reflecting on the rise and fall of the Tangiers Casino. Ace survives an assassination attempt and relocates to San Diego, where he continues his career in sports betting. Nicky and his brother are brutally murdered by the mob for their insubordination. The film ends with Ace lamenting the end of the era when the mob controlled Las Vegas, replaced by corporate interests.
Movie Ending
Casino ends with Ace Rothstein narrowly surviving an attempt on his life and relocating to San Diego, continuing his work in gambling. The film concludes with Ace reflecting on the transformation of Las Vegas from mob-run operations to corporate-controlled casinos, marking the end of an era.
Post-Credits Scene
There are no post-credits scenes in Casino.
Type of Movie
Casino is an epic crime drama that delves into themes of power, greed, betrayal, and the complex operations of mob-controlled casinos.
Cast
- Robert De Niro as Sam “Ace” Rothstein
- Sharon Stone as Ginger McKenna
- Joe Pesci as Nicky Santoro
- James Woods as Lester Diamond
- Don Rickles as Billy Sherbert
- Kevin Pollak as Phillip Green
- Frank Vincent as Frank Marino
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score was composed by a combination of popular music from the era and original compositions by Scorsese’s frequent collaborator Robbie Robertson. The soundtrack features an eclectic mix of classical, jazz, rock, and pop songs that enhance the film’s period setting and dramatic tension.
Filming Locations
Casino was filmed in various locations, including:
- Las Vegas, Nevada: For many of the casino and exterior shots.
- Riviera Hotel and Casino: For interior casino scenes.
- Additional locations in California for various exterior and interior scenes.
Awards and Nominations
Casino received numerous prestigious awards, including:
- Academy Awards: Nominated for Best Actress (Sharon Stone).
- Golden Globe Awards: Sharon Stone won Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama. Nominated for Best Director and Best Motion Picture – Drama.
- BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Cinematography.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Sharon Stone’s performance as Ginger McKenna was widely praised, and her preparation included studying the behaviors and lifestyles of real-life Las Vegas hustlers.
- Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci’s characters are based on real-life mob associates Frank Rosenthal and Anthony Spilotro, respectively. Their interactions and conflicts reflect actual events.
- The meticulous attention to detail in recreating the 1970s and 1980s Las Vegas atmosphere included sourcing period-specific casino equipment and clothing.
Inspirations and References
Casino is inspired by Nicholas Pileggi’s nonfiction book Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas, which chronicles the rise and fall of the mob’s influence in Las Vegas. The film combines historical events with dramatic embellishments to create a compelling narrative.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
The final cut of Casino closely follows Scorsese’s vision. Some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions and DVD releases, providing further context and character development.
Book Adaptations and Differences
The film is a direct adaptation of Nicholas Pileggi’s book, capturing the essence of the real-life events while dramatizing certain elements for cinematic effect. The book provides more detailed historical context and personal anecdotes from those involved.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Ace’s meticulous management of the Tangiers Casino.
- Nicky’s violent enforcement methods and their consequences.
- Ginger’s turbulent relationship with Ace and her spiral into addiction.
- The intense confrontation between Ace and Nicky in the desert.
- The brutal murder of Nicky and his brother by the mob.
Iconic Quotes
- “There are three ways of doing things around here: the right way, the wrong way, and the way that I do it.” – Ace Rothstein
- “For guys like me, Las Vegas washes away your sins. It’s like a morality car wash.” – Ace Rothstein
- “In the casino, the cardinal rule is to keep them playing and to keep them coming back. The longer they play, the more they lose, and in the end, we get it all.” – Ace Rothstein
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film includes numerous references to real-life mob figures and events, adding layers of authenticity for viewers familiar with the history.
- The use of actual casino equipment and vintage slot machines enhances the film’s period accuracy.
Trivia
- The film’s budget was approximately $50 million, and it grossed over $116 million worldwide.
- Joe Pesci’s portrayal of Nicky Santoro is noted for its intensity and violence, drawing comparisons to his role in Goodfellas.
- The film’s portrayal of the Tangiers Casino is based on the real-life Stardust Casino, one of the major venues controlled by the mob.
Why Watch?
Casino offers a gripping and detailed exploration of the inner workings of mob-controlled casinos, featuring powerful performances, particularly by Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci. Its blend of historical authenticity and dramatic storytelling makes it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and Martin Scorsese’s directorial style.
Director’s Other Movies
Martin Scorsese also directed:
