Casino (DVD)

Martin Scorsese, Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci, team up again after the Goodfellas , in this epic three hour film.

Set in the late 70’s early 80’s depicts how the mob won and lost the Casino operations in Las Vagas. Based on real life events.

As with the Goodfellas the language, violence and the casual use of drug maybe a bit OTT for some. However if you like the genre it is definitely one to watch.

Plot Summary:

Sam "Ace" Rothstein (De Niro) and his childhood friend Nicky Santoro (Joe Pesci) are at the top of their game.

When the Midwest mob selects Ace to run their newest acquisition, the Tangiers Hotel and Casino, in Las Vagas.

At the height of their success their character flaws become apparent; soon things get out of control, and everyone loses.

Based entirely on a true story, Casino recounts the dying days of the Mafia's stranglehold on the Las Vegas strip. Two men are given the job to protect the mob's financial interest (the skim) at all costs. But a power struggle ensues between the two and as one of them spirals out of control, the other has to watch as their dream is dismantled piece by piece.

The performances are riveting all round here but a special mention to Sharon Stone as Ginger, who's decent into alcholism is played to perfection. Joe Pesci is equally mesmerising as the terrifyingly explosive Nicky. The music and costumes weld into the film and give it a gloriously nostalgic feel that sharpens the authenitsm of the time. The late Saul Bass did the title design and adds it to his impressive reptotoire including Psycho.