With their dazzling lights, clinking slot machines and the scent of gambling excitement, casinos can create a euphoric experience that makes people want to gamble. But these casinos are also businesses that are trying to turn a profit by taking advantage of people’s addiction to chance. Something about casinos seems to encourage cheating, stealing and scamming to a degree that other types of business probably don’t. That’s why casinos have to spend so much time, effort and money on security.

Casinos are fun and exciting for most people, but they can be very stressful as well. Many people become addicted to gambling, which can lead to financial problems, family and social issues. Some people also spend too much time at casinos, leading to isolation from non-gambling friends and family.

Gambling is a game of chance, and the odds are always in favor of the house. This means that most people will lose money over the long run. Casinos try to counter this by rewarding loyal customers with complimentary items (known as comps). These can include free rooms, meals and shows. Some casinos even give away limo service and airline tickets to top spenders!

Casino stars Robert De Niro as Sam “Ace” Rothstein, a Vegas mogul who’s built his fortune on rigging casino games. Scorsese’s movie is not only a riveting drama, but it also offers an inside look at how Las Vegas casinos work. From the first scene’s prowling Steadicam to the final car bomb, Casino keeps a taut and thrilling pace throughout its nearly three-hour running time.