After the success of Goodfellas, Universal was eager to greenlight another mafia movie from Martin Scorsese, and Casino was the result. Based on the nonfiction book by Nicholas Pileggi, it was a civic portrait of Sin City, revealing its shady underbelly as an epic drama of corruption and greed. The film boasted a superb cast, including Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci completing their collaboration begun in Raging Bull, but it was Sharon Stone who stole the show as the blonde hustler Ginger McKenna. It’s a film about betrayal, revenge, and violence but, in the end, these ruthless characters do get their comeuppance.
Gambling in its many forms has been part of human civilization for millennia. Evidence of dice was found in 2300 BC China, while the first card game appeared in the 1400s. Then, in the early 20th century, gambling was legalized and casinos opened.
Casinos offer entertainment, social interaction and the chance to win money. They also stimulate local economies by creating jobs, generating tax revenue and attracting tourists. Gambling can be a fun way to spend time and provides an adrenaline rush when you win, but it’s important to understand the risks involved.