Movies have captured the imagination of every generation since they were first invented. They are an art form that triggers endless emotional responses in audiences, from happiness to fear. Incredible soundtracks, enticing visuals, and a talented cast all contribute to keeping audiences glued to their seats as the story unfolds – quite simply, movies are an experience.
Throughout history, from black-and-white film to the new age of 4k resolution, one place has become an iconic and prevalent feature in movies: the casino.
Now, when you think of the all-time great Hollywood movies, it’s highly likely that a handful of casino scenes come to mind. Let’s look at four of the best and most iconic.
The Hangover
The original Hangover movie from 2009 has become a cult classic and is widely regarded by many critics as the funniest comedy of all time. It produced countless legendary moments, with the card counting scene at the casino being one of them. After Alan’s success at blackjack, the Wolfpack were able to then go and free their friend Doug – who turned out to be the wrong guy.
This scene was so influential that it made many people around the world fall in love with casinos. Of course, now you don’t have to travel to Las Vegas to experience this. You can visit spincasino.com to experience the magic yourself right at home on your computer or smartphone and still get the same thrill. Best of you could watch the film while simultaneously playing.
Casino Royale
Casino Royale was Daniel Craig’s first James Bond movie – it made him a blockbuster name and set him on the journey to becoming many people’s favourite version of the iconic character. Movie fanatics remember Casino Royale fondly for the poker game between Bond and Le Chiffre. It was tense, heart-pounding stuff which saw nervous spectators in the casino gather to watch Bond come out victorious; winning $115 million.
Dr. No
It’s impossible to mention Casino Royale without also talking about Dr No. Dr. No was the first James Bond movie, released back in 1963. The opening scene takes place in a casino in Monte Carlo. Here, the audience meets the suave and classy Mr. Bond (played by Sean Connery). Mid-poker game, he lights a cigarette and says the famous quote for the first time when asked for his name: “Bond. James Bond.” Sadly, Sean Connery has since passed away.
Star Wars: The Last Jedi
Now, time for something from more recent movie history: the casino scene from The Last Jedi.
The Last Jedi is one of the most controversial, opinion-dividing movies of all time – which hardcore Star Wars fans still argue about to the present day. Whatever your critique is, you cannot deny that Rian Johnson created a highly interesting and polarizing piece of cinema.
One of the hot points of discussion is the famous casino scene, which sees Finn and Rose head to a casino filled with all kinds of fascinating space creatures (and humans) playing a variety of games. It climaxes with the two heroes freeing enslaved animals – which provided a great moral lesson for the audience.
However, this scene, among many others from The Last Jedi, has perhaps been overshadowed by criticism. Who knows, maybe in 10 years, critics will look back more fondly at The Last Jedi (and the Disney trilogy as a whole) more fondly.