Casinos are known for their opulence and lavish decor that sets the mood for a gambling experience. Many of them also have top-notch restaurants that feature gourmet cuisines and world-renowned chefs. The combination of these elements makes for a truly immersive casino experience that offers a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

While there are some seedy backroom gambling parlors in real life, most casinos are large, professional facilities that offer patrons a safe environment to dine, watch live shows or closed-circuit television broadcasts, play games of chance, and generally have a good time. These establishments may not always be free of violent crime but they often have security guards and are located in areas that are patrolled by police.

Aside from showcasing the seedy underbelly of organized crime, Casino is also an evocative portrait of Las Vegas as a city that is not all neon lights and slot machines. The movie lays bare the underbelly of the casino business as it relates to the mob, and its depiction of lust and betrayal is fascinating to behold.

Its gangster plot is not as compelling as Goodfellas, but it still packs a punch and the performances are outstanding. Joe Pesci in particular is a tour de force as Nicky, a scumbag who rises to the top of the business then falls from its heights due to his own lust and hubris. If you’re a fan of Martin Scorsese or gangster films, Casino is a must-see.