Martin Scorsese’s 1995 film “Casino” offers a fascinating look into the world of mafia-run Las Vegas.

We go through the story through the eyes of the main character Sam “Ace” Rothstein, played by Robert De Niro. Viewers experience the glittering but dangerous life in Sin City during the 70s and 80s.

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Historical accuracy

“Casino” is based on real events and people. The mafia had indeed had a great influence on the district. Characters like Ace Rothstein and Nicky Santoro, portrayed by Joe Pesci, are based on real people. Frank Rosenthal and Tony Spilotro.

It shows in great detail how the mafia diverted money and how corruption and violence were omnipresent. However, this influence began to wane in the 80s. That was when state authorities began to crack down on organized crime.

The decline of the mafia

With the decline of the mafia in the 80s, the industry began to change. Big corporations and businessmen took control.

This led to a huge change. Instead of the dark atmosphere often portrayed at the time, it developed into a luxury location. Entertainment for masses of diverse people.

Some fun and perhaps lesser known facts about the film:

• Costume Overkill: Robert De Niro had an incredible 70 different costumes, while Sharon Stone wore 40 outfits. This attention to detail underlines his commitment to the style of the era.
• Real-time monitoring: The scenes were filmed in a real casino. The Riviera in Las Vegas. It had to keep running during production, and real people were often caught on camera.
• Verbal: She is notorious for her frequent use of foul language. In fact, the “F-word” is used over 400 times throughout, making it one of the films with the highest swear word density.
• Improvisation: Joe Pesci and Sharon Stone often improvised during filming. Some of her moments were filmed without a strict script. This leads to spontaneous and lively interactions between the characters.

The birth of the mega resorts

Today, Las Vegas is home to some of the largest and most luxurious resorts in the world. Places like the Bellagio, The Venetian and the MGM Grand are a far cry from the versions of the past.

You also have world-class entertainment, gourmet dining and luxury shopping. They have become symbols of redefining Las Vegas as a global hot spot.

Then and now

If you compare that to today’s Las Vegas, the difference is striking. While films depict greed and deceit, modern reality presents itself as a family-friendly vacation spot.

Today it stands as a testament to how places and industries can develop and adapt to new times. It remains a shining example of constant renewal and change. A city that continually reinvents itself.