In Las Vegas, two best friends--a casino executive and a Mafia enforcer--compete for a gambling empire and a fast-living, fast-loving socialite.

Impressive ambition and bravura performances from an outstanding cast help Casino pay off in spite of a familiar narrative that may strike some viewers as a safe bet for director Martin Scorsese.

'Casino' is a complex crime drama with mixed opinions. Many praise Scorsese's direction, performances, and thematic depth. Critics hail it as a masterpiece for its narrative and visual style. Others find it derivative, criticizing pacing and length. The film's violence receives mixed reactions, with some appreciating realism and others finding it excessive. Overall, 'Casino' is seen as a significant, if flawed, Scorsese film.