The word casino conjures images of seedy backroom gambling parlors where people you would not want to cross converge to gamble and socialize in a no-holds barred environment. But that image has been largely put to rest by modern, legal casinos that offer a safe, regulated and highly-controlled environment in which to play cards, slots, and other games of chance.
Casinos bring many benefits to the communities they serve. Besides the obvious tax revenue that they generate local populations benefit from the jobs created by the casino and the money that visitors spend on food, hotels, and other entertainment and services. In addition, when a new casino opens in a city it typically attracts people from surrounding areas and even states, increasing tourism and the economic activity generated by that.
A casino’s design should encourage gambling by offering a stimulating and cheering atmosphere. Color is important, and bright, sometimes gaudy floor and wall coverings can help to entice players to the tables. The use of red is especially effective as it is thought to encourage gamblers to lose track of time. The lighting is also crucial, and casinos avoid using clocks as they believe that patrons will become absorbed in their gambling and will not notice the passing of time.
Martin Scorsese’s Casino is a riveting and entertaining movie that demonstrates his mastery of filmmaking. It features a fine cast led by De Niro and Pesci and has a fast pace that never sags. In fact, it is one of the best movies about Vegas that has ever been made.