The Tangiers Casino, featured prominently in the 1995 film «Casino» directed by Martin Scorsese, is a fictional establishment that draws significant inspiration from several real-life casinos in Las Vegas. The film, which is based on the non-fiction book «Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas» by Nicholas Pileggi, chronicles the rise and fall of the Tangiers, mirroring the tumultuous history of the Stardust and the Riviera casinos.
The Tangiers is depicted as a luxurious and glamorous casino, catering to high rollers and featuring lavish entertainment options, reminiscent of the golden age of Las Vegas. The casino’s design, with its ornate interiors and extravagant shows, reflects the opulence associated with the real-life casinos of the 1970s and 1980s. The film’s portrayal of the Tangiers captures the essence of Las Vegas during a time when mob influence was at its peak, and the casino industry was undergoing significant changes.
The Stardust Resort and Casino, which operated from 1958 until 2006, is one of the primary inspirations for the Tangiers. The Stardust was known for its grand architecture and was one of the first casinos to feature a large showroom for entertainment, gqbet sister sites – gq-bet-casino.co.uk – similar to what is depicted in the film. Additionally, the Stardust was notorious for its connections to organized crime, making it a fitting backdrop for the narrative of «Casino.» The film illustrates the power struggles and corruption that plagued the casino industry, paralleling the real-life events that occurred at the Stardust.
Another significant influence on the Tangiers is the Riviera Hotel and Casino, which was operational from 1955 until 2015. The Riviera was known for its lavish shows and was a hotspot for celebrities and high-profile entertainers. The film captures this aspect of the Riviera, showcasing the glitz and glamour that characterized the casino scene during its heyday. The Riviera’s connection to the mob also aligns with the themes of «Casino,» as it was often embroiled in controversies related to organized crime.
Moreover, the Tangiers serves as a narrative device that encapsulates the broader story of Las Vegas during a transformative period. The film’s depiction of the casino’s rise mirrors the rapid growth of Las Vegas as a premier entertainment destination, while its eventual decline reflects the changing dynamics of the gambling industry, including the increasing influence of corporate interests and the decline of mob control.
In conclusion, the Tangiers Casino, while a fictional entity, is deeply rooted in the real history of Las Vegas casinos like the Stardust and the Riviera. Through its portrayal of the casino’s opulence, entertainment, and the undercurrents of organized crime, «Casino» provides a compelling look at a pivotal era in Las Vegas history. The legacy of the Tangiers continues to resonate, serving as a reminder of the complex interplay between glamour and corruption that defines the world of casinos.