Casino 25th Anniversary: Revisiting Scorsese’s Timeless Vegas Epic

Universal Pictures released the film Casino on November 22, 1995. The Martin Scorsese-directed epic starred Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci. It was an immediate cinematic event. The movie explored the dark heart of Las Vegas.

The film went on to earn $115 million at the global box office. Sharon Stone received an Oscar nomination for her performance. According to The Hollywood Reporter’s original review, the film was a “big winner, commercially and aesthetically.”

A Cinematic Masterpiece Re-examined

Scorsese’s film is a neon-noir Western set in the 1970s. It depicts the early, frontier days of Las Vegas. The story follows Sam Rothstein, a bookie played by De Niro. He is appointed to run the Tangiers Hotel.

His operation is funded by the mob through the Teamsters Union pension fund. The film shows the meticulous skim of casino profits. This money kept organized crime figures in the Midwest flush with cash.

The director’s vision was high-wattage electric. Scorsese’s direction was described as cunning, brash, and playful. His visual style created a searing smear of sleaze and glitz. It perfectly portended the downfall of its characters.

The Enduring Legacy and Cultural Impact

The film remains a scorching depiction of the American Dream’s underside. It is fascinating even to casual viewers. The story is a wily and cynical glimpse into how things really worked.

It is a story of obsession and personal debit. Sam Rothstein’s professional life is a stacked deck. His personal life, however, is his undoing. He falls for a gold-digger, played brilliantly by Sharon Stone.

Her performance was hailed as sensational. It earned her a Best Actress Oscar nomination. Joe Pesci delivered another terrific performance as a volatile loose cannon. The supporting cast, including Don Rickles, was also praised.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is the movie Casino about?

The film chronicles the story of Sam Rothstein. He is a mob-connected bookie who runs a Las Vegas casino. His life unravels due to his volatile friend and a compulsive wife.

Who starred in the film Casino?

Robert De Niro played the lead role of Sam Rothstein. He was joined by Joe Pesci as Nicky Santoro. Sharon Stone played Ginger McKenna, earning an Oscar nomination.

Was Casino a box office success?

Yes, the film was a commercial winner. It grossed $115 million globally during its theatrical run. It was also a critical success for its direction and acting.

How does Casino compare to GoodFellas?

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Casino belongs on the same high shelf. It shares a similar structure and thematic depth. Both films are masterful mob narratives from Scorsese.

Why is the Casino 25th anniversary significant?

The anniversary marks a quarter-century for a defining film. It allows a new generation to discover this classic. The film’s themes of greed and power remain strikingly relevant today.