The Rat Pack Era
The Beginnings
While the Rat Pack era is often cited as the golden age of Las Vegas in film, the and mega888
mega888 city’s cinematic history began earlier. Frank Sinatra’s first movie, Las Vegas Nights, was released in 1941. However, it was the late 1950s and early 1960s that truly cemented Las Vegas as a film destination, thanks to the Rat Pack.
The Rat Pack Members
The Rat Pack consisted of five iconic entertainers: Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, Dean Martin, Joey Bishop, and Frank Sinatra. These men were not only good friends but also loved to party, often gathering at the Sands Hotel and Casino, which was demolished in 1996 and is now the site of The Venetian.
Films and Legacy
The Rat Pack era produced seven notable films:
- Some Came Running (1958)
- Ocean’s 11 (1960)
- Sergeants 3 (1962)
- 4 for Texas (1963)
- Robin and the 7 Hoods (1964)
- Marriage on the Rocks (1965)
- Cannonball Run II (1984)
Ocean’s 11 is perhaps the most famous, inspiring a successful 2001 remake starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Julia Roberts. The remake featured robbery scenes at the Bellagio.
Elvis Presley: The King of Las Vegas
Iconic Films
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, also left an indelible mark on Las Vegas. His 1964 film Viva Las Vegas remains a classic, showcasing his love for the city. In 1970, Elvis starred in a documentary filmed at the International Hotel (now the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino), titled Elvis: That’s the Way It Is.
