The 1995 movie Casino, directed by Martin Scorsese, is an epic tale of the rise and fall of the mafia’s influence on the Las Vegas casino industry. However, what many people don’t realize is that the movie is based on real-life events that occurred in Las Vegas during the 1970s and 1980s. In this blog post, we will explore 7 completely true events that the movie “Casino” is based on.
- The Stardust Casino Skimming Operation
In the movie, the character of Sam “Ace” Rothstein, played by Robert De Niro, runs the fictional Tangiers Casino. However, the real-life inspiration for the character was Frank “Lefty” Rosenthal, who ran the Stardust Casino during the 1970s. Rosenthal was involved in a massive skimming operation, in which he and his associates would steal millions of dollars from the casino’s profits.
- The Mob’s Influence on the Las Vegas Casinos
The movie accurately portrays the influence of the mafia on the Las Vegas casino industry during the 1970s and 1980s. The mafia had a significant presence in Las Vegas, and they controlled much of the casino industry through their connections and influence.
- The FBI’s Investigation of the Mob’s Influence on Las Vegas
The movie accurately depicts the FBI’s investigation of the mafia’s influence on the Las Vegas casino industry. The FBI was able to gather evidence of the mafia’s illegal activities, including their involvement in skimming operations, and successfully prosecuted several high-profile members of the mafia.
- The Bombing of Rosenthal’s Car
In the movie, Sam Rothstein’s car is bombed as a warning from the mafia. This event is based on a real-life incident in which Frank Rosenthal’s car was bombed in the parking lot of Tony Roma’s restaurant in Las Vegas. Rosenthal survived the bombing, but it was a clear message from the mafia that they were not to be crossed.
- The “Black Book” of Banned Casino Players
In the movie, the character of Nicky Santoro, played by Joe Pesci, is added to the Nevada Gaming Control Board’s “Black Book” of banned casino players. This is based on a real-life book that the Nevada Gaming Control Board maintains, which lists individuals who are banned from entering any casino in the state.
- The Use of “Comp” Programs to Attract High Rollers
The movie accurately depicts the use of “comp” programs by casinos to attract high rollers. These programs offer free meals, drinks, and other perks to players who spend large amounts of money in the casino.
- The Deception of Casino Patrons
The movie accurately portrays the deception that some casinos use to take advantage of their patrons. In one scene, Sam Rothstein explains how the casino alters the odds of a game to ensure that they come out ahead. This is based on the real-life practice of casinos manipulating the odds of games to increase their profits.
In conclusion, the movie “Casino” is based on several true events that occurred in Las Vegas during the 1970s and 1980s. These events include the mafia’s influence on the casino industry, the FBI’s investigation of the mafia’s illegal activities, and the use of “comp” programs to attract high rollers. While the movie takes some liberties with the facts, it accurately portrays the turbulent and dangerous world of Las Vegas casinos during this time period.
