Robert De Niro's Underrated Crime Drama "Casino" Hits Netflix

The 1995 Vegas-set gangster film from Martin Scorsese is getting a second look as it debuts on the streaming platform.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The 1995 crime drama "Casino", directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro, is now streaming on Netflix. The film, which reunited the "Goodfellas" team of Scorsese, De Niro, and Joe Pesci, was initially seen as a pale retread of their earlier mob classic. However, some critics now argue that "Casino" deserves a critical reassessment, with its strong performances, intense visual style, and more nuanced exploration of the nature of crime and criminal downfall.

Why it matters

"Casino" has long been overshadowed by the acclaim for "Goodfellas", but its Netflix debut comes at a time when Robert De Niro's crime film legacy is being re-examined. The recent streaming success of his 2025 film "The Alto Knights" and reports of a star-studded cast for the "Heat" sequel have sparked renewed interest in De Niro's crime movie work. This could be an opportunity for "Casino" to finally get the critical reappraisal it deserves.

The details

"Casino" was released in 1995 and reunited the creative team behind the acclaimed "Goodfellas" - director Martin Scorsese, actor Robert De Niro, and actor Joe Pesci. However, the film was initially seen as a less compelling retread of the earlier mob drama. Critics noted the strong performances and visual style, but dismissed it for a lack of originality. The film's lukewarm reception was reflected in its sole Oscar nomination for Sharon Stone's Best Actress performance.

  • "Casino" is now streaming on Netflix as of March 1, 2026.
  • The Netflix debut comes two months after the streaming success of De Niro's 2025 crime film "The Alto Knights".
  • The "Casino" streaming release also coincides with reports of casting for the planned "Heat" sequel, which could further stoke interest in De Niro's crime movie legacy.

The players

Robert De Niro

An acclaimed American actor known for his roles in iconic crime films like "Goodfellas" and "Casino".

Martin Scorsese

An acclaimed American filmmaker who directed "Casino" and other acclaimed crime dramas like "Goodfellas".

Joe Pesci

An American actor who co-starred with De Niro in "Casino" and "Goodfellas".

Sharon Stone

An American actress who received an Oscar nomination for her performance in "Casino".

Michael Mann

An American filmmaker who directed the crime classic "Heat" and is planning a sequel film.

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What’s next

Fans are eagerly awaiting more details on the planned "Heat" sequel, including whether Robert De Niro will reprise his role from the original 1995 film.

The takeaway

The Netflix debut of "Casino" provides an opportunity for the film to be reevaluated and recognized for its own merits, beyond the shadow of the acclaimed "Goodfellas". The timing coincides with renewed interest in Robert De Niro's crime movie legacy, suggesting the underrated drama may finally get the critical reappraisal it deserves.