Rothstein's partner in crime is Nicky Santoro (Joe Pesci), who is far less convincing as a mobster than he would seem to like to believe. It was refreshing for a movie to finally show that not all gamblers are stupid, but instead one of those who takes advantage of the many who are. Rothstein is not a mob member, but a 'moneymaker' for them because he's the nation's best sports handicapper.
As a lifelong gambler who has crossed paths with a few fringe types portrayed in the film, I'm well aware of the story, the culture, and the ambiance of the Tangiers, the fictional casino placed in the control of Sam 'Ace' Rothstein (Robert Deniro).
