It has been an extraordinary transformation.
Once casinos were thought the worst dens of debauchery, frequently banned and closed. In the harshest places their clients were considered social delinquents.
Fast forward a hundred years or so and casinos have become a welcome and thriving part of modern culture and society.
Today, many of these entertainment venues are not just places for gaming – they've evolved into leisure complexes offering a appealing array of amenities like restaurants, hotels, live shows and shopping malls.
Why have casinos become such a major part of modern culture?
Casinos now frequently feature in movies, TV shows and literature. They are usually symbols of a glamorous, exciting lifestyle.
From James Bond books to the hit Ocean's Eleven film, they've become iconic settings for storytelling.
At the same time many cities and regions rely on casinos as major tourist attractions. Las Vegas, Macau and Monte Carlo have casinos that are integral to their tourism industries.
Those cities have discovered that casinos generate significant revenue and provide employment opportunities. No wonder they’re now so welcome in local communities.
The rise of online casinos has made gambling more accessible to a much wider audience.
Bonuses have encouraged more and more online players. Anyone with an internet connection can play online using one of these.
Gaming was once stigmatized in many societies but today casinos have become completely acceptable entertainment venues.
When casinos appear on the big screen
Here are six great film appearances of casinos that highlight how they’ve become prominent in popular culture:
- Ocean's Eleven
This 2001 heist film was directed by Steven Soderbergh. It revolves around a group of con artists who plan to rob three Las Vegas casinos simultaneously.
The movie features iconic casinos, the Bellagio, Mirage and MGM Grand. It also portrays the glamour and excitement associated with the casino lifestyle.
The success of Ocean's Eleven spawned sequels and cemented the glittering image of Las Vegas casinos.
- Casino (1995)
Directed by Martin Scorsese in 1995, Casino is a crime drama based on the true story of the rise and fall of casino boss Sam ‘Ace’ Rothstein. He is played by Robert De Niro.
Set in the 1970s and 1980s, the film takes viewers inside the world of Las Vegas casinos. It captures the glitz, glamour and corruption that characterized the era.
Casino’s success showcased the immense power and influence of casinos in Las Vegas and demonstrates their cultural significance.
- Rounders
This 1998 drama film directed by John Dahl follows the underground world of high-stakes poker. It features several scenes in Atlantic City casinos and highlights the adrenaline-fueled atmosphere of the casino floor.
The film helped popularize the game of Texas Hold'em and contributed to the romanticization of casino culture.
- Casino Royale
This 2006 James Bond film was directed by Martin Campbell and starred Daniel Craig as Bond. The highlight is a thrilling high-stakes poker game at the Casino Royale in Montenegro.
The film showcases the sophistication of the casino setting. The intense gambling scenes are central to the plot.
Casino Royale revitalized the Bond franchise and made James Bond seem a natural part of the world of casinos.
- The Hangover
Directed by Todd Phillips, The Hangover of 2009 is a cult-hit comedy film that follows a group of friends who wake up in Las Vegas with no memory of the previous night's events.
The film features them retracing their steps to find their missing friend. The movie features several iconic Las Vegas casinos, including Caesars Palace – where much of the hilarity and chaos ensues.
- Rain Man
Directed by Barry Levinson this movie starred Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman. 1988’s Rain Man tells the story of a selfish young man who discovers that his estranged brother is autistic but has incredible mathematical abilities.
The brothers embark on a road trip to Las Vegas, where they capitalize on the brother's talent for counting cards to win big at blackjack. The film not only features the excitement of gambling but also explores themes of brotherhood and self-discovery.
These additional examples further illustrate the prominent role that casinos play in popular culture, as depicted in TV and film.
Casinos cultural image in the future
Casinos' prominence in popular culture is likely to continue.
Many will continue to evolve into multifaceted entertainment complexes and will attract a broader audience. The development of mega-resorts in emerging gaming destinations will further cement their role in local economies and cultures.
Casinos will increasingly incorporate technology to enhance their appeal, including virtual reality games. Online gambling will continue to grow, making gambling more accessible to a global audience.
Overall, entertainment experts say that casinos will remain popular locations and settings for media and pop culture. Expect to keep spotting them in all your favourite movies, TV shows, music and literature.
