Martin Scorsese’s film Casino celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2025, a milestone prompting renewed appreciation for this work as more than just a counterpart to Goodfellas. Released in 1995, the movie reunited Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci in another intense mafia epic, this time set within the glamorous yet ruthless environment of Las Vegas. Despite its artistic achievements, Casino has often lived in the shadow of Goodfellas when it comes to recognition.
Unpacking the Reasons Behind Casino’s Overshadowing by Goodfellas
Goodfellas earned its high status by revolutionizing the gangster genre with a fresh narrative style focusing on Henry Hill’s mob life, delivered through innovative cinematic techniques such as freeze frames and breaking the fourth wall. This approach captivated audiences and critics, ultimately securing six Oscar nominations, with Joe Pesci winning Best Supporting Actor for his role as the volatile Tommy DeVito.
By the time Casino appeared, its similarities to Goodfellas—like the use of voiceover narration and cyclical rise-and-fall storytelling—diminished its shock value. Although it offered a comparable stylistic approach, Casino did not redefine the genre as Goodfellas had. Had Casino been released earlier, it might have been recognized as a genre-defining film. Additionally, Scorsese’s continuous output of acclaimed movies following Casino made it challenging for this film to remain prominent in discussions of his finest work. This circumstance highlights Scorsese’s sustained brilliance rather than any failings in Casino itself.
How Casino Establishes Its Unique Identity as an Underrated Masterpiece
Casino distinguishes itself through a narrative complexity that surpasses Goodfellas’ single perspective. It weaves multiple viewpoints and deeply explores the motivations and power struggles among its characters. Robert De Niro portrays Ace, a casino owner caught in a web of corruption, while Joe Pesci’s character, Nicky Santoro, serves as a ruthless mob enforcer whose actions bring destruction. Sharon Stone delivers a powerhouse performance as a cunning hustler who manipulates her surroundings, earning an Oscar nomination for this role.
Scorsese’s depiction of Las Vegas elevates the city to a character in its own right, presenting a hauntingly vivid backdrop that complements the film’s mood. The ending eschews a dramatic climax in favor of a contemplative finale, portraying a man forced to adapt as the world around him irrevocably transforms.
While Goodfellas maintains its status as a gold standard gangster film, Casino deserves equal respect for its technical mastery and narrative depth. As Casino turns 30, there is a growing call within film communities to recognize its significance as a Martin Scorsese Casino underrated masterpiece.
For viewers interested in revisiting these films, Casino is available on HBO Max, while Goodfellas can be streamed via Peacock Premium and Fubo TV in the United States.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Martin Scorsese religious?
A. Yes, Scorsese has stated that he is Catholic. He told NCR, “I feel most at ease as a Catholic.” Although Scorsese doesn’t attend church each Sunday, he believes in the principles of Catholicism. He explained, “Catholicism has been, and continues to be, my path.”
Q. Does Martin Scorsese have OCD?
A. Celebrated filmmaker and writer Martin Scorsese reportedly has OCD, and he explored this condition in his films The Aviator and What’s a Nice Girl Like You Doing in a Place Like This, his debut short film.
