Review of Casino (1995) by Frank C — 18 May 2013

Martin Scorsese's companion piece to GoodFellas, this film takes place in Las Vegas, focusing heavily on the mafia's hand in the casino business. Robert De Niro depicts Sam Rothstein, a Jewish associated of the Mafia, who is sent to Las Vegas to run a casino known as the Tangiers.

Joe Pesci depicts Nicky Santoro, Rothstein's friend and a member of the Mafia, who is sent out to Las Vegas to watch his back, while Sharon Stone depicts Ginger, Rothstein's wife. The film doesn't shy on violence, although Scosese shows it in a realistic matter.

Unlike GoodFellas, this film is close to three hours, but is still good and highly enjoyable. Robert Richardson's cinematography wonderfully evokes the time period, while Scorsese's choice in music is once again outstanding.

As with all of Scorsese's films, this film shows the work of a great filmmaker.