The World of Oceans Eleven: Targeting Famous Las Vegas Casinos

When discussing the famous movie Oceans Eleven, it is important to note that there have been two films with this title, each targeting different casinos in Las Vegas. These casinos became iconic not only because of their appearance in these films but also due to their significant historical and cultural significance in the city. Let's delve into the casinos targeted in the original film and in the George Clooney remake.

The Original Oceans Eleven (1960)

The original Oceans Eleven starring Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack targeted five of Las Vegas’ most famous casinos: the Sahara, the Riviera, the Desert Inn, the Sands, and the Flamingo. Each of these casinos played a crucial role in the narrative of the film, embodying the high-stakes, glamorous world presented within the movie.

The Current Status of the Casinos from the Original Oceans Eleven

The Sahara: Despite being one of the original targets in the film, the Sahara is still in operation today. It has undergone numerous renovations to modernize its amenities and attractions. The Flamingo: The Flamingo, another target in the film and also still in operation, has gone through a series of transformations over the years, including significant expansions and renovations. The Riviera: Interestingly, the land where the Riviera once stood is now part of the Global Business District. Most of the original building has been demolished, transforming the area into a bustling commercial hub. The Desert Inn: The area where the Desert Inn stood is now home to the Wynn and Encore. These modern casinos have replaced the historic Desert Inn, carrying on the legacy of high-end gambling in the Las Vegas landscape. The Sands: The land where the Sands casino once stood is now occupied by the luxurious Venetian resort. The Sands itself closed in 2008 and was demolished in 2011, marking the end of an era for this historic venue.

The George Clooney Remake: Oceans Eleven (2001)

The George Clooney version of Oceans Eleven took a different approach, focusing on three iconic casinos: the Bellagio, the Mirage, and the MGM Grand. These casinos were chosen for their unique styles, landmarks, and cultural significance.

The Target Casinos in the George Clooney Film

The casinos in this version are as follows:

The Bellagio: Known for its Italian-inspired luxury and opulence, the Bellagio is a standout landmark in the Las Vegas skyline, designed by César Pelli. The film showcases the casino's grand entrances and luxurious rooms. The Mirage: The Mirage is famous for its iconic fountains and revolving hotel. The film's storyline takes advantage of the casino's unique exterior and architecture. The MGM Grand: This casino is recognized for its vast size and wide array of amenities. The film highlights the casino’s storied history and its place in the history of Las Vegas.

Both movies effectively utilized these targeted casinos to create an immersive and captivating story. The changes between the original and the remake show the evolution of Las Vegas itself, with new casinos and developments reshaping the area.

Whether you are a fan of Oceans Eleven or simply interested in the history of Las Vegas, these casinos offer a unique glimpse into the city’s vibrant past and present. Each has left its mark on the film world and continues to attract visitors worldwide, testament to their enduring appeal.