Whether you’re a high roller looking for the thrill of the game or just a tourist seeking a night of opulence, world-class casinos are sure to please. But there are some things you should keep in mind to make the most of your experience.

For starters, don’t play any games you don’t understand-it’s the quickest way to burn through your cash. Similarly, avoid the temptation to drink too much free alcohol. Casinos are banking on tipsy players to spend more money-and they’re calculating their profits accordingly.

Another crucial thing to remember is that the odds are stacked against you, so it’s in your best financial interests to leave when you’re ahead. Gambling can be taxing on the body and mind, so it’s important to stay well-rested and in control of your decisions. Trying to recoup losses is a recipe for disaster.

Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci give outstanding performances in Casino, which chronicles the rise of gambling corporations in Vegas and the fall of mafia kingpin Frank “Lefty” Rosenthal. De Niro’s Ace Rothstein is tough and smart, with a veneer of honesty that belies his true nature as a mobster. And Pesci’s Nicky Santoro is a violent, loose cannon who lets his anger govern most of his decisions. The costumes, by Rita Ryack and John Dunn, are stunning-vivid mustard yellows and electric blues for Ace, cocktail dresses and slightly tackier white leather miniskirts for Ginger. And the set locations are authentic-the real casino, not some slick Hollywood remake.