When you enter a casino, you’re in an exciting place full of flashy lights, music and gambling. It’s all about having fun while trying your luck with games like poker, roulette or blackjack. There’s also usually a lot of places to eat and drink and entertainment options like live music or shows. People who go to casinos are often excited and energetic, even if they lose a bit of money.

Casinos have to spend a lot of money on security to prevent cheating, theft and fraud. They typically have no windows or clocks, because they want you to lose track of time and keep playing. And they have elaborate surveillance systems that offer an eye-in-the-sky view of every table, slot machine and doorway.

Many casinos give their big bettors extravagant inducements to encourage them to keep betting and spending. These can include free spectacular entertainment, limousines and hotel rooms. They’re able to do this because they know that each game gives them a mathematical expectancy of generating gross profit.

Casino demonstrates Scorsese’s sensitivity to the nuances of character and how they can change perceptions of reality. It also reveals the way that organized crime and big business are connected. But the film’s biggest achievement may be highlighting how Ace sees himself as a principled, old-school operator, a world away from the dashing wiseguy of Goodfellas. That’s what makes Casino one of the most compelling movies of all time.