Casino (Movie Review)

Casino is the kind of movie that doesn’t just stand out as a great gangster film, it transcends. Even people who don’t particularly care for gangster movies should find something to like here, especially the performances of Sharon Stone and Robert De Niro. This is one of the few films I can think of where you can see a clear progression of character problems and their effects.

Generally speaking, casinos are built to make money. They use a variety of techniques to lure in players and keep them gambling. They may spray scented oils throughout the ventilation system to create a pleasant smell that makes gamblers feel happy and relaxed. They also create a manufactured sense of euphoria by putting bright lights and joyful music in the rooms. They may even use near-misses on slot machines to keep people playing.

The film opens with a series of fast-cut, documentary-like footage, which works to give the viewer a behind-the-scenes look at how casinos work. But after a while, Scorsese gradually drops the narration. He also starts to employ a more traditional directorial style. The change is subtle but effective, allowing the story to take center stage without sacrificing his original style. As for the story, it centers around the shady world of Las Vegas gambling. It’s not a perfect movie, but it does deliver on its promise to show how fucked up the world of organized crime really is. Moreover, it’s a testament to the skill of director Martin Scorsese and his crew.