Feature Story
Casino a la Mode
Written by Frank Rosenthal on October 14, 2001
In 1993 I agreed to meet with Hollywood screenwriter and celebrated author Nick Pileggi, at therequest of my former Las Vegas attorney, Oscar Goodman. Nick was in the process of writing his book Casino, and felt that without my input the project would be shallow and incomplete. Based upon Nick's personal guarantee that he would not distort the substance or accuracy of the events and circumstance surrounding my career I agreed to cooperate in a manner of candor without compromising those events and situations that I considered to be excessively sensitive or intrusive. Nick became a frequent flier, shuttling between New York and Boca Raton for an extended period of time, and ultimately became fascinated with the experiences and insight that I was able to share with him. Our meetings would last from 6 to 8 hours per day depending up on my stamina. I once mentioned, half kidding, half on the square. "Hey Nick, you're wearing me out." I can vividly recall the numerous times that my good friend Nick would place aside his notes, lean back with a broad smile and say, "Frank, this is terrific stuff; what a life!" In spite of the fact that the finished Casino product was hard-hitting the author's adherence to a strict code of values gained my respect and admiration.
Soon thereafter Nick decided to contact Universal Pictures, Hollywood director Martin Scorsese, and his longtime buddy, "Godfather" Robert De Niro. It became unanimous. The movie Casino was preparing to launch. Bob D went airborne in order to capture his subject from an up close vantage point searching for technical gaming knowledge and the various idiosyncrasies of the individual that he would be portraying. I didn't know it at the time, but eventually I was able to recognize his unique approach. That's Bob's "hallmark." We got along quite well, and Bob became a frequent Boca Raton visitor. Bob had an inquiring mind, searching into the various dimensions and truisms of the real World of Casino. The two-time academy winner couldn't get enough of the intricacies, romance, and lifestyle that goes hand in hand with one who experienced true to life gaming taken at it's very highest level. Subsequently I was then introduced to Universal's top gun from their legal department. I received a call from Jeffrey Korchek. Smooth, personable, articulate, and obviously very bright. After approximately one hour Jeff made it crystal clear that they Universal would love to have me on the team! I enjoyed the dialogue and felt a sense of confidence and comfort that we could work together. Right near the end of our initial conversation Jeff asked me if I would be willing to consider an offer that would include one year of consulting with the principals of the movie which included Bob D, director Martin Scorsese, Nick P, 
and the lead female who would portray my former wife, but hadn't yet been determined. Additionally, I would be required to travel to New York, Beverly Hills, and avail myself via the telephone with the said principals during the development of principal photography, and for a short period thereafter. I said, please, be my guest. "Wonderful, Frank!" "On behalf of Universal Studios, I would ask you to consider a one time payment ranging between $25 and $50 thousand, first-class curb-to-curb service for all necessary travel during the development of the movie, and a generous expense account that would include all incidentals relating to the production of Casino. Additionally Jeff guaranteed me that all hotel accommodations would include a luxury suite, and a chauffeur. Jeff then asked, "How does that fit with you, Frank?" I replied, "the travel arrangements and consulting requirements sound okay; the payment at first glance appears to be somewhat lower than I had anticipated." Jeff didn't seem to bat an eyelash. "Okay, my friend, could you give me an idea what would you consider to be an equitable arrangement? Obviously, we need you onboard." "Sure can, Jeff." "The number that comes to my mind would be $1 million! Jeff calmly responded with, "we're really not that far apart!" That was a classic! A response that I'll never forget! Within a week subsequent to that conversation we struck a deal. Universal decided to take a deep breath, and Jeff sweetened the offer substantially. Jeff and I have remained good friends ever since.
After a few trips to the "Big Apple" and Hollywood the screenplay was woven. Casting for the leading lady consisted of Nicole Kidman, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Sharon Stone. There may have been others, but those 3 ladies had an awful lot of talent and beauty. As it turned out lovely and cerebral Sharon Stone became the directors choice. Wish I could have been the casting director The shooting took place in the heart of the Las Vegas strip. The command post was the Riviera Hotel Casino, and a few months latter it was a wrap. Casino was in the cans, and the delicate and arduous process of editing belonged to the "Little General." Martin Scorsese, the famed director of "Raging Bull" and many other screen classics.
Cherry Pie Alamode:I received two tickets for the premier showing of Casino in the heart of Hollywood. It was a hot and prestigious ticket, and I was undecided. Should I, shouldn't I? At the time my focus was limited to an upscale restaurant Crocs and bar that I was operating here in Boca Raton. Great looking young yuppie clientele, which included some of the finest looking bar staff that I've ever been associated with, and that includes Sin City, Nevada! 
One young lady in particular Kelly a former Miss Florida runner up was part of the "Crocs Stable." A part-time model and student. Talk about a genuine champion filly, Kelly had it all! On a scale of 1 to 10, Kelly was a dead bang 9+? Bob and Nick were encouraging me to join the party and experience a once in a lifetime ball. I was indecisive, and unsure if I had the right fit to become part of the Tinsel Town club. Kelly came to mind more often than once as a sharp companion. I knew that I ran a high risk that she could say, hey Frank, Pasadena, have a nice trip. My gambling genes took charge. One bright Friday evening I decided to take a shot!" Kelly, would you consider being my guest for 3 days in Beverly Hills for the premier showing of Casino? I'd be willing to provide us with two first class adjoining suites?" "You'll be in the company of Hollywood's finest, and we could windup having a great time." Kelly said, "Frank, forget about the adjoining suites? One suite, one bedroom, that's all we'll need? Bingo! Cloud nine never felt better!
Good Luck, Frank Rosenthal