Whether they’re gambling for money, winning a big jackpot or just trying to get their lucky streak going with some free spins, people are drawn to casinos. The bright lights, the music and the sound of pennies dropping (even though we don’t use coins anymore) all play on our senses and make us feel good. That’s why it’s no surprise that casinos are often known for their hospitality and customer service.

In Casino, we see just how intricately a web of corruption can be woven into the heart of Vegas. From the mob’s ties to local politicians, Teamsters unions and even Midwest mafia syndicates, to Ace’s blind love for a hooker named Ginger (Sharon Stone) that ends up costing him everything, this movie has it all.

But, despite its dark undertones, Casino is still a funny film. James Woods makes for a riotous low-life con man, and Vinny Vella is a hoot as the long-suffering Artie Piscano. But, Sharon Stone is the clear star of the show and she completely owns this movie. It’s almost unfair that she wasn’t given the Oscar for her portrayal of a character so complex and believable. Casino is a gangster classic that has to be seen to believe.