Did You Know These 10 Things About ‘Casino’?
When ‘Casino’ premiered in 1995, it reunited director Martin Scorsese with stars Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci for another deep dive into the world of organized crime. Based on true events, the film chronicled the rise and fall of Sam “Ace” Rothstein, a casino manager in 1970s Las Vegas, and his volatile partnership with mob enforcer Nicky Santoro. Featuring Sharon Stone in a career-defining role, ‘Casino’ explored greed, corruption, and betrayal amid the glittering chaos of Sin City.
Known for its stylish direction, powerful performances, and brutal realism, ‘Casino’ became one of Scorsese’s most acclaimed films. Here are ten things you might not know about ‘Casino’.
It Was Based on a True Story
The film was inspired by real-life casino boss Frank “Lefty” Rosenthal and mob enforcer Anthony Spilotro.
Nicholas Pileggi, who co-wrote the screenplay with Scorsese, based it on his nonfiction book Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas.
Sharon Stone’s Role Earned Her an Oscar Nomination
Stone played Ginger McKenna, a glamorous hustler whose life spirals into tragedy.
Her performance was praised for its emotional depth, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
De Niro’s Wardrobe Broke Records
Robert De Niro wore over 70 different outfits throughout the film, all authentic to the 1970s and 1980s Vegas style.
His flashy suits and jewelry symbolized Ace Rothstein’s obsession with control and image.
Joe Pesci’s Character Was Infamously Violent
Pesci’s portrayal of Nicky Santoro was loosely based on real mob hitman Anthony Spilotro.
The character’s brutal methods and explosive temper made him one of the most feared figures in the film.
The Opening Explosion Was Symbolic
The movie’s opening scene—Ace’s car exploding in slow motion—was designed to symbolize his downfall.
Scorsese used a haunting voiceover and music to turn the moment into an almost operatic depiction of fate.
It Was Filmed in a Real Casino
Much of ‘Casino’ was filmed at the Riviera Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, which remained open during production.
Real gamblers were used as extras, adding authenticity to the busy casino floor scenes.
The Narration Style Came from ‘Goodfellas’
Like ‘Goodfellas,’ the film used voiceovers to guide viewers through the rise and fall of its characters.
Both De Niro and Pesci narrated sections of the film, giving insight into their clashing perspectives.
The Violence Was Based on Real Events
Several of the film’s most shocking moments, including Nicky’s brutal ending, were inspired by real mob killings.
Scorsese insisted on depicting the violence honestly to show the true consequences of corruption and greed.
The Film Was Banned in Some Countries
Due to its graphic violence and portrayal of organized crime, ‘Casino’ faced bans or heavy censorship in several countries upon release.
However, it later gained critical recognition as one of Scorsese’s most detailed portrayals of the criminal underworld.
It Became a Vegas Classic
Over time, ‘Casino’ earned a reputation as one of the most authentic depictions of Las Vegas in film history.
Its mix of real-world detail, complex characters, and moral decay cemented it as a crime masterpiece alongside ‘Goodfellas.’
What fact about ‘Casino’ did you find the most surprising? Share your thoughts in the comments!