A casino is an establishment where people pay to play gambling games, such as craps, roulette, baccarat, blackjack, and video poker. The casino’s owner makes money by charging a commission, or “rake,” on each bet placed at the table. This money is used to cover the cost of the table’s dealers and other expenses. Some casinos also offer free hotel rooms and meals to big spenders.

Because of the large amounts of currency handled, casinos have strict security measures in place. These may include cameras throughout the facility that can be monitored from a separate room filled with banks of security monitors. In addition, staff members are on watch for patrons who attempt to cheat or steal, either in collusion with each other or on their own.

Movies often feature scenes in casinos because the settings provide a sense of glamour and sophistication. These venues are also known for requiring patrons to follow a certain dress code and for hosting high-profile events, such as stag or hen parties. They are also popular destinations for celebrities who want to mingle with other famous figures and wager their hard-earned cash.

Martin Scorsese’s Casino is an outstanding example of a movie that takes a serious look at the darker side of the gambling industry. The movie lays bare the corruption that centered in Las Vegas, with tendrils reaching out to politicians, Teamsters unions, and even the Chicago mob. Despite its violent scenes, such as the torture of De Niro’s character and the burying of Joe Pesci’s character alive in a cornfield, the movie is compelling throughout its three-hour run time.