Las
Vegas has many aliases: the City of Entertainment, Sin City, and the City of
Lights, just to name a few. “Movie Star” is another moniker that we think
should be added to the list. Why? Just take a look at some of Hollywood’s most
popular films over the last few decades, all featuring the same world-famous
celebrity: Las Vegas! With billion dollar casinos and megaresorts, some of the
world’s most unique attractions, and a party atmosphere unlike any other, it’s
no wonder that Las Vegas has made a guest appearance in countless movies.
That’s why we’ve decided to put together a list of our top 5 films featuring
our favorite movie star.
1
1) The
Hangover (2009): A Las Vegas-set comedy centered around three groomsmen who
lose their about-to-be-wed buddy during their drunken misadventures, then must
retrace their steps in order to find him. Starring Zach Galifianakis, Bradley
Cooper, Justin Bartha and Ed Helms.
2
2) Rain
Man (1988): Yuppie Charlie Babbitt's father left a fortune to his savant
brother Raymond and a pittance to Charlie. After Charlie takes Raymond into his
care, for selfish motivations, the brothers travel cross-country together,
allowing them to truly get to know each other. One memorable stop on their
journey is Las Vegas, where Charlie puts Raymond’s card-counting skills to use.
Starring Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman.
3
3) Ocean’s
11 (2001): In this crime caper remake, Danny Ocean and his 11 accomplices plan
the biggest heist the world has ever seen, robbing 3 Las Vegas casinos
simultaneously. The three properties that lie in their crosshairs? The
Bellagio, The Mirage, and MGM Grand, all of which are owned by Terry Benedict.
The excitement ensues as the robbers attempt to capture $150 million without
getting caught. Starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Julia Roberts,
Andy Garcia, and Bernie Mac.
4
4) Fear
and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998): Based on the psychedelic novel written by
Hunter S. Thompson, an oddball journalist and his psychopathic lawyer travel to
Las Vegas for a series of mind-altering escapades. In search of the “American
Dream,” the two men travel across Western America in their convertible, the Red
Shark. Starring Johnny Depp, Benicio del Torro, and Tobey Maguire.
5
5) Vegas
Vacation (1997): In this edition of the beloved National Lampoon’s “Vacation”
franchise, Clark Griswold and family set their sights on Las Vegas, the new
family entertainment capital of America.
Siegfried and Roy’s extravaganza, an unforgettable Hoover Dam tour, and
a guest appearance by Mr. Las Vegas, himself, Wayne Newton, all contribute to
the Griswold’s one-of-a-kind Vegas vacation. Starring Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, and Randy Quaid.
