Casino (1995) Cast: Then And Now
Hey guys! Remember that epic movie Casino from 1995? It was a total blast from the past, right? Directed by the legendary Martin Scorsese, it dove deep into the glitz, glamour, and gritty underbelly of Las Vegas in the '70s. The film boasted an all-star cast that brought the story to life with such intensity and charisma. Ever wondered what happened to the actors who made Casino such a classic? Well, let's find out!
Robert De Niro as Sam "Ace" Rothstein
Robert De Niro played Sam "Ace" Rothstein, a gambling expert hand-picked by the Mafia to oversee the Tangiers Casino in Las Vegas. De Niro's portrayal of Ace was nothing short of iconic, capturing the character's intelligence, meticulousness, and growing paranoia as his world spirals out of control. Before Casino, De Niro had already cemented his status as one of the greatest actors of all time, with memorable roles in films like Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and Goodfellas. His collaboration with Scorsese is one of the most celebrated in cinematic history, marked by powerful performances and unforgettable stories. Casino added another feather to his cap, showcasing his ability to embody complex characters with depth and nuance. After Casino, De Niro continued to dominate the silver screen with roles in a wide array of films, from comedies like Meet the Parents to crime thrillers like Heat and Righteous Kill. He has also ventured into directing, with films like A Bronx Tale. De Niro's enduring career is a testament to his talent and dedication, making him a true legend in the world of acting. His recent works include The Irishman (another collaboration with Scorsese), Joker, and Killers of the Flower Moon, proving that he remains a force to be reckoned with in Hollywood. Whether he's playing a hardened gangster or a comedic dad, De Niro always brings his A-game, captivating audiences with his unparalleled screen presence. He has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including multiple Academy Awards, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential actors of our time. For fans of Casino, revisiting De Niro's performance as Ace Rothstein is always a treat, reminding us of his incredible range and the magic he brings to every role.
Sharon Stone as Ginger McKenna
Sharon Stone delivered a career-defining performance as Ginger McKenna, a charismatic and troubled hustler who becomes Ace's wife. Stone's portrayal of Ginger was magnetic, showcasing her beauty, vulnerability, and self-destructive tendencies. Before Casino, Stone had gained recognition for her role in Basic Instinct, but it was her work in Scorsese's film that truly solidified her as a major star. Her ability to capture Ginger's complex emotions, from her initial allure to her eventual descent into chaos, earned her widespread critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination. The chemistry between Stone and De Niro was palpable, adding another layer of intensity to their tumultuous on-screen relationship. After Casino, Stone continued to star in a variety of films, including The Quick and the Dead, Diabolique, and Catwoman. She has also made notable appearances on television, with roles in series like Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and Ratched. Stone's career has been marked by her willingness to take on challenging and diverse roles, showcasing her versatility as an actress. She has also been an outspoken advocate for various causes, including HIV/AIDS research and women's rights. Her contributions to both film and activism have made her a respected figure in the entertainment industry and beyond. Recently, Stone has appeared in films like The Laundromat and What About Love, continuing to demonstrate her talent and commitment to her craft. For many, her performance as Ginger McKenna remains a highlight of her career, a testament to her ability to embody complex and unforgettable characters. Revisiting Casino is a reminder of the impact Sharon Stone has had on cinema and her enduring presence as a leading lady.
Joe Pesci as Nicky Santoro
Joe Pesci played Nicky Santoro, Ace's childhood friend and a volatile mobster who brings chaos and violence to Las Vegas. Pesci's portrayal of Nicky was explosive, capturing the character's ruthlessness, unpredictability, and unwavering loyalty to Ace. Before Casino, Pesci had already made a name for himself with memorable roles in films like Raging Bull and Goodfellas, both directed by Scorsese. His ability to portray intense and often unhinged characters made him a perfect fit for the role of Nicky Santoro. Pesci's performance in Casino is often regarded as one of his best, showcasing his talent for both comedic timing and chilling menace. The dynamic between Pesci and De Niro was electric, adding another layer of tension to the film's already volatile atmosphere. After Casino, Pesci took on a variety of roles, including appearances in films like Lethal Weapon 4 and Home Alone. He also took a hiatus from acting for a period of time, focusing on his music career. In recent years, Pesci has made a comeback to the big screen, with a notable role in Scorsese's The Irishman. His performance in The Irishman earned him widespread critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination, proving that he remains a force to be reckoned with in the world of acting. Pesci's contributions to cinema have been immense, and his collaborations with Scorsese have produced some of the most iconic and memorable characters in film history. For fans of Casino, revisiting Pesci's performance as Nicky Santoro is a must, reminding us of his incredible talent and the indelible mark he has left on the world of cinema.
Don Rickles as Billy Sherbert
Don Rickles, the legendary comedian, played Billy Sherbert, Ace's loyal and quick-witted casino manager. Rickles brought his signature brand of humor to the role, providing moments of levity amidst the film's intense drama. Before Casino, Rickles was known for his stand-up comedy and appearances on television shows like The Dean Martin Celebrity Roast. His ability to deliver sharp and often insulting jokes with impeccable timing made him a beloved figure in the world of comedy. In Casino, Rickles showcased his acting skills, proving that he was more than just a comedian. His portrayal of Billy Sherbert was both funny and endearing, adding a unique dimension to the film's ensemble cast. After Casino, Rickles continued to work in comedy and made appearances in films like Toy Story, where he voiced the character of Mr. Potato Head. He also continued to perform stand-up comedy until his death in 2017. Rickles' contributions to comedy and entertainment have been immense, and his legacy as one of the funniest and most beloved comedians of all time will endure for generations to come. For fans of Casino, revisiting Rickles' performance as Billy Sherbert is a reminder of his incredible talent and the joy he brought to audiences around the world.
James Woods as Lester Diamond
James Woods portrayed Lester Diamond, Ginger's former pimp and a sleazy con artist. Woods brought his characteristic intensity to the role, making Lester a memorable and unsettling character. Before Casino, Woods had established himself as a versatile actor with roles in films like Videodrome, Once Upon a Time in America, and Salvador. His ability to play both heroic and villainous characters with equal skill made him a sought-after actor in Hollywood. In Casino, Woods delivered a nuanced performance, capturing Lester's manipulative nature and his complex relationship with Ginger. After Casino, Woods continued to work in film and television, with notable roles in series like Shark and Family Guy, where he voiced a fictionalized version of himself. He has also been an outspoken political commentator, often sharing his views on social media. Woods' contributions to entertainment have been significant, and his performances in films like Casino have solidified his status as a talented and versatile actor. For fans of Casino, revisiting Woods' portrayal of Lester Diamond is a reminder of his ability to bring complex and often morally ambiguous characters to life.
What Made Casino so special?
Casino remains a cinematic masterpiece due to several factors. First off, Martin Scorsese's masterful direction brought a unique and immersive experience to the audience, pulling them into the extravagant and dangerous world of 1970s Las Vegas. Scorsese's attention to detail, combined with his signature use of voice-over narration and dynamic camera work, created a visually stunning and narratively compelling film. Secondly, the film's screenplay, co-written by Scorsese and Nicholas Pileggi, was based on Pileggi's non-fiction book Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas. This gave the film a sense of authenticity and realism, as it was rooted in real-life events and characters. The screenplay delved deep into the complex relationships between the characters, exploring themes of greed, power, and betrayal. Lastly, the stellar performances from the cast elevated the film to another level. Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci delivered some of the best performances of their careers, bringing their characters to life with depth, nuance, and intensity. The chemistry between the actors was palpable, adding another layer of authenticity to the film's portrayal of the relationships between the characters. All these elements combined made Casino a cinematic triumph that continues to captivate audiences today.
So, there you have it! A little trip down memory lane with the cast of Casino. It's always fun to see where these talented actors have gone since this classic film. Until next time, keep enjoying those movie nights!
