As a movie, Casino is a slick, fast-paced crime drama that depicts corruption at the highest levels of power in Las Vegas. It lays bare the mob’s ties with political leaders, the Teamsters union, and even Midwest mafia families. It also highlights the opulence of the city, along with its neon signs and gambling machines. It’s no wonder that Robert De Niro received a Best Actor nomination for his portrayal of mafia boss, Paulie. He is ably supported by Sharon Stone as Ginger McKenna and Joe Pesci as the menacing Santoro.
The movie’s biggest takeaway is that there is no such thing as a good guy in a world of greed and corruption. All of the key characters get their comeuppance in the end. We don’t like them, but we can’t help feeling sorry for them at the same time.
Gambling is a form of mental exercise, which helps to relieve stress and other negative emotions. It is a way for people to escape the everyday grind of their lives, while still being able to work through issues they’re struggling with.
It is important for casinos to understand the emotional decisions that their customers make, and then double down on those feelings through their gaming, dining, entertainment, and other casino offerings. Demographics are helpful, but they should be used as a supplement to understanding your audience’s motivations, pain points, and desired experience. For example, a group of women may be visiting your casino for a fun night out, but they could just as easily be on a business trip with an hour to kill.