Is Casino Based on a True Story? Plot, Cast, Where to Watch and More
by Tamilarasi S
Updated Jan 22, 2024
Casino
"Casino" is a 1995 film directed by Martin Scorsese, featuring Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci. The story follows Sam "Ace" Rothstein, a skilled gambler hired by the Chicago Outfit to manage the Tangiers Casino in Las Vegas. As Sam runs the casino, he faces challenges, including Mafia involvement and changing times in Vegas.
The film is inspired by real people, with Sam based on Frank Rosenthal and other characters reflecting actual individuals. "Casino" received positive reviews for its portrayal of the casino world, crime, and the breakdown of relationships. Sharon Stone's performance was particularly praised, earning her a Golden Globe for Best Actress. Released in 1995, the movie was a global success and remains a notable crime drama in cinematic history.
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Is Casino Based on a True Story?
Yes, "Casino" is based on a true story. The 1995 film, directed by Martin Scorsese, is adapted from Nicholas Pileggi's nonfiction book, "Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas." The main characters, such as Sam "Ace" Rothstein, Nicky Santoro, and Ginger McKenna, are inspired by real individuals involved in the Las Vegas casino scene during the 1970s and 1980s.
Sam is based on Frank Rosenthal, a gambling expert who managed several casinos for the Chicago Outfit. Nicky Santoro is inspired by mob enforcer Anthony Spilotro, and Ginger is based on Geri McGee, a former dancer and socialite. The film portrays the real-life challenges and events surrounding the mob's influence on Las Vegas casinos, adding a layer of authenticity to its crime drama narrative.
Casino Plot
"Casino" unfolds in 1970s and 1980s Las Vegas, where Sam "Ace" Rothstein is sent by the Chicago Outfit to run the Tangiers Casino. Sam quickly boosts profits through cash skimming, a scheme where unaccounted-for money is taken directly from the casino. To protect Sam, the mob sends his childhood friend Nicky Santoro. However, Nicky's reckless criminal activities draw too much attention from the media and police, leading to his ban from all Nevada casinos.
Sam's personal life becomes complicated as he falls in love with Ginger McKenna, a con artist and former prostitute. Their marriage faces challenges due to Ginger's relationship with her ex-boyfriend, Lester Diamond. As the FBI investigates the casino's illegal activities, Ginger betrays Sam and becomes involved with law enforcement.
Tensions rise between Sam and Nicky, leading to a car bomb attempt on Sam's life. Surviving the attack, Sam reflects on the changing landscape of Las Vegas. In 1986, the Mafia orders the brutal murder of Nicky, marking the end of their control in the casino industry. The film explores themes of crime, betrayal, and the transformation of Las Vegas from a mob-controlled realm to a corporate-run city. Sam ends up as a sports handicapper in San Diego, contemplating the impact of the changing times on his life.
Casino Cast
Actor
Character
Robert De Niro
Sam "Ace" Rothstein
Sharon Stone
Ginger McKenna
Joe Pesci
Nicky Santoro
James Woods
Lester Diamond
Don Rickles
Billy Sherbert
Alan King
Andy Stone
Kevin Pollak
Phillip Green
L. Q. Jones
Pat Webb
Dick Smothers
Senator Harrison Roberts
Frank Vincent
Frank Marino
John Bloom
Don Ward
Pasquale Cajano
Remo Gaggi
Melissa Prophet
Jennifer Santoro
Bill Allison
John Nance
Vinny Vella
Artie Piscano
Oscar Goodman
Himself
Catherine Scorsese
Piscano's Mother
Philip Suriano
Dominick Santoro
Erika Von Tagen
Older Amy
Richard Riehle
Charlie Clark
Frankie Avalon
Himself
Steve Allen
Himself
Jayne Meadows
Herself
Jerry Vale
Himself
Gene Ruffini
Vinny Forlano
Joseph Rigano
Vincent Borelli
Paul Herman
Gambler In Phone Booth
Where to Watch Casino ?
"Casino" may be available for streaming or rental on various platforms. You can check popular streaming services like JioCinema, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, and Apple TV. These platforms often offer movies for rent or purchase.
Availability may vary based on your location and the region-specific content libraries of each service. Simply search for "Casino" on these platforms to see if it is available for streaming or rental. Keep in mind that streaming availability can change, so it's advisable to check directly on these platforms for the most current information on where to watch "Casino."
Casino Trailer
Is Casino Based on a True Story - FAQ
"Casino" is a 1995 film directed by Martin Scorsese, depicting the true story of Sam "Ace" Rothstein managing a Las Vegas casino for the Mafia.
Yes, "Casino" is based on real events and characters from the book "Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas" by Nicholas Pileggi.
Sam "Ace" Rothstein is inspired by the life of Frank Rosenthal, a gambling expert who managed several Las Vegas casinos for the Chicago Outfit.
Yes, Nicky Santoro is based on mob enforcer Anthony Spilotro, and Ginger McKenna is inspired by former dancer and socialite Geri McGee.
"Casino" was released on November 22, 1995. The main actors include Robert De Niro as Sam Rothstein, Sharon Stone as Ginger McKenna, and Joe Pesci as Nicky Santoro.