Movie #89- "Casino" (1995)

I may have initially stayed away from this film because so many reviews made the comparison to "Goodfellas".  A lot of love was given to "Goodfellas", so it was tough trying to imagine an effort that would improve on that film.  While the relation between the two films it obvious in a few huge ways, "Casino" still manages plenty of different qualities to distance itself. 
Starting with the similarities, you have a film directed by Scorsese peppered with violence and another appearance by Pesci in a frightening role.  DeNiro is here as well, but this time, in a different capacity.  Here, he likes playing with the big boys, carrying himself with a little swagger.  However, he also follows the rules set by those in charge so as not to arouse any suspicions on the payoffs or himself.  To complete his character, he's given a love interest cut from the same cloth, Sharon Stone.
Stone is a hustler like DeNiro, though she is a bit more brash about it.  DeNiro adores her while she wants the security.  Even when the two marry, you know it's not going to end well.  The relationship between DeNiro and Stone is one of the driving forces behind "Casino".  Unfortunately it's a force that runs its course before the finale.  DeNiro still loves her while Stone grows to despise him.  The focus of the crumbling relationship takes too much time as the point is continually hammered during the last portion of the film.  Stone deserved the Oscar nomination although a little editing wouldn't have hurt.
One other key difference is the setting.  Vegas is not only the location, but plays as one of the characters.
This is the story of Vegas past.  DeNiro's makes the comment about how Vegas has turned into Disneyland.  You see the glamour and the glitz as well as the seedy underbelly.  This is a Vegas preparing for a transition.
I would still put "Goodfellas" as the better film although "Casino" is close in reaching those lofty heights.

Rating: 8/10
Movies I've previously seen: 6
First time viewings: 83