When a casino film is made well, it grips viewers with its suspense. From the thrill of a jackpot to the adrenaline rush of winning or losing, the genre has captivated audiences since its inception. While there are many ways to produce a casino movie, it takes a talented filmmaker and cast to capture the audience’s attention and create a memorable film.
While there’s certainly an element of luck involved in playing a casino game, it’s also true that the house always wins. Games like roulette, baccarat, and video poker have mathematically determined odds that ensure the house will win over players, no matter how much they play or for how long. This advantage, known as the “house edge,” is what allows casinos to keep operating, even if they lose some of their patrons’ money.
Casino was a smash hit when it came out, thanks to a strong showing by stars De Niro and Pesci (who had been in the same cast since Raging Bull) and Scorsese’s refusal to draw a line between depiction and endorsement of a vicious racket. This refusal to sanitize the movie fueled the fervor of a generation that embraced the ’70s crime drama as an alternative to the Disneyland-style Vegas they saw around them.
For today’s casino marketers, it’s important to realize that there is more to the experience than just the gaming floor. The right marketing strategy can highlight a hotel and spa, cutting-edge technology, flexible event spaces, award-winning restaurants, and unique entertainment options.