Movies and TV shows that are set in casinos or generally revolve around them have always been an interesting idea and something that audiences in general are interested in. Even if they do not become blockbusters, they will still be considered a great watch.
What’s generally amazing about this type of setting is that it is perfect for numerous genres, which is probably one of the main reasons why so many directors and screenwriters decided to film their movies/TV shows out there.
There’s always some intriguing story happening in casino-themed movies and TV shows, which is why so many of them have become very popular. With that being said, let’s take a look at some of the most legendary celebrities who have played in casino movies/TV shows.
Robert De Niro – The Casino Movie (1995)
If you put together two legends, like Robert De Niro and Martin Scorsese, then you have a win-win combination. This isn’t a movie where you’ll see regular people playing casino games online and just enjoying their lives, but it talks about some shady people who are involved in very fishy businesses. What makes this move so appealing to a larger audience, is the fact that it’s actually based on real people who have worked in the casino industry, back in the 1970s and 1980s.
In case you didn’t know, Frank Rosenthal (who was actually the manager in various casinos) served as an inspiration for the creation of Sam Rothstein (played by De Niro). Besides him, you’ll get the chance to see other legends, like Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci.
Although the critics weren’t too thrilled about the Casino and thought that Martin didn’t use all of his skill when he was directing it, it still didn’t stop it from breaking the box office. On the contrary, it earned over $115 million, which was a staggering amount of money back then.
Ray Liotta – Good Fellas (1990)
Every passionate cinephile has probably seen Good fellas at least once because this is by far, one of the biggest classics of all time. There are movies that are okay, the ones that you can barely watch till the end, and those that you can watch at least once a week.
Well, Good Fellas is the one that you can watch repeatedly. That’s how spectacular it is, and probably one of the most iconic films that was situated in the casino. It is another masterpiece created by Martin Scorsese and it has a myriad of talented actors, starting from, (once again) Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, Lorraine Bracco, and phenomenal Ray Liotta.
Generally speaking, Ray Liotta is renowned for playing the bad guys in different casino-themed movies, and this is one of them. If you are looking for a film that’s going to keep you on the edge of your seat, that’s full of drama and action, then you are going to love this one, along with its antiheroes.
Chevy Chase – Vegas Vacation (1997)
Now, here’s something that cannot come close to the above-mentioned movies in any sense. Even though it may not be the best movie of all time (and it’s far from iconic), it doesn’t mean that it shouldn’t be mentioned.
After all, why do people always need to watch something that’s overly serious and dramatic, when they can unwind by watching a silly comedy? That’s exactly what Vegas Vacation is. Many would define it as dumb, but who cares, right?
So what can be said about this title? It centers around Clark Griswold (played by charismatic Chevy Chase) who becomes addicted to gambling and is tortured by a card dealer called Marty (played by talented Wallace Shawn).
The whole point of this movie is to have fun and not take anything that occurs in it seriously. You will have lots of laughs, and undoubtedly, enjoy the performances of the main actors, which is why you should surely give it a shot.
George Clooney – The Ocean’s Franchise
Even though George Clooney isn’t oftentimes seen in films that are set in casinos, he, (among many other actors in the movie) has become known for the Ocean’s franchise. Up until then, the handsome actor was mostly known for romantic comedies and dramas, but then something “clicked” in his mind, so he decided to step out of his comfort zone and try out something completely different which turned out to be one of his best decisions in terms of his career.
Although Ocean’s movies do have a touch of comedy in them, it’s safe to say that they contain a lot more action than any other genre. Even if you’re not the biggest fan of casino-themed films, you must give this franchise a chance because, besides charming George Clooney, you will get the opportunity to see other legendary actors as well, like Andy Garcia, Mat Damon, Julia Roberts, and Brad Pitt. Not too shabby, right?
Kevin Spacey – 21 (2008)
Everybody who is even remotely familiar with the film industry knows how talented Kevin Spacey is and that he boasts some of the most iconic roles of all time. 21 movie may not be one of them, however, if you are an avid casino lover, then you will most likely like this one.
It was directed by Robert Luketic and it talks about Ben Campbell, who is an intelligent, young guy, a student at Massachusetts Institute of Technology who is looking for a fast cash so he can pay his tuition bills.
In order to do so, he joins the group of students (led by Mickey Rosa) who are relying on their math skills in order to win a massive amount of money in the Las Vegas casino. Sounds unbelievable, right?
Although this movie is allegedly based on a true story, a lot of people would beg to differ. Now, this may not be the best film of all time, but it’s surely a fun watch.
It’s safe to say that the film industry is packed with a variety of casino-themed stories, however, today, this article focused on the ones that are all interesting in their own way, and that are full of talented actors and actresses.
