I like that they do, in a very shallow way, examine the psyche of a man ordered to kill for his government.
In Casino when he takes that extra large drink right after the staircase fight scene (which is great).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...7V2SqD3A#t=33s
It's not all just "ooh baby i just murdered 3 men, let's have some caviar."