Exquisite...

Rating: 10/10 (19 October 2009)

I am a huge movie fan. As of this writing, I am 35 years old and have voted on nearly 1500 movies on IMDb. I've been a movie fan as far back as I can remember. And the best movie I've ever seen? You guessed it...Casino.
If I had to describe this movie in one word, it would be "exquisite". From the images of slow rolling dice to the scintillating voice-overs of movie-legends Robert DeNiro and Joe Pesci, each second of "Casino" shines brilliantly. It is a glorious film.
"Casino" doesn't get the credit it deserves, unfortunately. It somehow takes a back-seat to gangster films such as "The Godfather" and "Goodfellas", two highly inferior films. In nearly every regard, from camera-work to writing to acting, "Casino" trumps all other gangster films. If you haven't seen it yet, I envy you (as I would LOVE to see it again for the first time). Repeated viewings get better and better, but I was star-struck while watching "Casino" originally...and I'm sure you will feel the same. "Casino" is an amazing achievement. Many kudos Mr. Scorsese.
It would be a mistake not to mention the tremendous cast...and they all bring their best work to the table. Sharon Stone, in particular, was tremendously impressive. Put it this way: When I originally seen "Casino" for the first time, Stone was one of my least-favorite actresses. After the movie, she was my favorite. She didn't just play "Ginger", she owned her! If I was asked my opinion on the "Best Supporting Actress of all-time", my vote would be Stone in "Casino". One of the best performances of all-time. Not to be overlooked is some of the all-time film greats in Robert DeNiro, Joe Pesci, and James Woods. I am having difficult coming up with adjectives worthy enough to describe their performances. It's just an outstanding movie, played by outstanding actors, with outstanding direction.
"Casino" is like a theme park for movie-going adults. It has it all...Violence (including one absolutely BRUTAL scene to watch), gangsters, drugs, sex and plenty of profanity. But it's also about loyalty, friendships and relationships...in a gangster sort of way. Ever wondered what daily life would be for a mob-dealing gangster? Or a hit-man? Or a married whore? Or a pimp and golf hustler? "Casino" covers it all! Just sit back with your favorite drink or cigar...and ENJOY!!! :)
Thanks for reading...now go see Casino!
JD