Casino is about greed, treachery and violence, but it also shows how these criminals get their comeuppance. The movie makes you feel for the characters, even though they are scumbags. The director, Martin Scorsese (Mean Streets, GoodFellas), worked hard to make us feel as if we are eavesdropping on real events.
The first hour of the film plays like a documentary, with narration by Sam “Ace” Rothstein and others. We learn how the Mafia skimmed millions out of casinos, taking 25 percent of the slot machine take. They also skimmed from the table games, food service and gift shops.
There are no heroic characters in Casino, only people mired in crime and avarice. But the movie does have its redeeming qualities, especially the performances of Robert De Niro and Sharon Stone. They give credible and convincing portrayals of the characters they play.
Gambling in a casino can help relieve negative feelings such as stress, anxiety and depression. It can also create a sense of euphoria. It’s important for players to understand their betting limits, and be aware of how much they are spending.
Casinos feature high ceilings, beautiful decor and an easy-to-navigate layout that encourages players to stay longer and return — despite losing money. Casinos can make their customers feel comfortable by wafting scented oils through their ventilation systems. These scents combined with the cheerful sound of slot machines create a manufactured blissful experience that keeps people coming back for more.
