Someone else already stated it, but the musical battle in the bar is one of the most authentic and powerful scenes of classic movies. There's a really simple reason. The majority of the extras were exiles and refugees from German occupied Europe, and this was filmed as the war was going on. The excitement in their voices and their tears were not acting at all. Those were the emotional responses of people who were literally singing defiance against the Germans and one of their marching songs. To portray the sound of a nation being free and drowning out the Germans by their voices was a victory that they needed.
The German song is the Wacht am Rhein, which became popular during the Franco-Prussian war and had a resurgence of popularity during both world wars - but with the general population, not the Nazi party, which frowned on patriotic songs (other than the national anthem) that were not explicitly pro-Nazi, which of course a song that predated the Nazi party could not be. The filmmakers would have preferred to use the Nazi anthem, the Horst Wessel song, but that was under copyright, which would have forced the studio to pay royalties to the enemy, unless they restricted themselves to showing the film only in Allied countries and no neutral ones. So they used the Wacht am Rhein, even though in real life it is highly unlikely that this group of dedicated Nazis would have been singing it. One other divergence from history: there was no such thing as a letter of transit. The writers invented that as a plot device.
true.. . a sure top 5 flick I'd think thou 'personal preference / style is a factor. minor ps - the airport is Van nuys in eastern LA. been there but didn't think to see if there were any memorabilia.
Casablanca was made in the middle of World War 2 with 3 years of the war still to go and the outcome very much in doubt. It was filmed at the studio in California. Many of the extras were actually people who had been refugees and had fled Europe. Thanks for reacting to these older films and bringing them to new audiences!!
Some of the aspects of characters in the film such as: keeping secrets, hiding identities, telling partial truths, being reluctant to explain everything, being willing to make sacrifices for the greater good, understanding that there are things more important than personal happiness - these were traits that became understandable to audiences in a time of war, especially in places where the “underground” had to operate in secret, and when people knew their loved ones had been (or would be) killed, captured or tortured. So the ideas of secrecy, and self-sacrifice became more common. Luckily, at the end, Capt Renault realized that he couldn’t stand the Nazi oppression any more - so he dropped the bottle of Vichy water (symbolizing the collaborationist French govt headquartered in Vicky, France) into the trash and kicked it away. He signals that he is now willing to join the “Free French” movement who fought against the German occupation, and that he and Rick will have to “disappear” from Casablanca. The timeless love triangle plus the tragedies of wartime blend together beautifully in this script.
Only 4 members of the cast were Americans: Rick, Sam, the girl asking Rick for help, and the doorman refusing entrance to the gambler. Some were Brits, many were refugees from the war. The guy playing Strasser fled Germany because his wife was Jewish. Many broke out in real tears when the dueling anthems scene was filmed.
The drunk lady 'Yvonne' and the casino boss were in real life married - refugees from Fra. thru Lisbon, as in the flick.and ' the girl ' was I gather a daughter of Warners boss. ' daddy, can I be in a picture '?
Yes. Madeleine Lebeau, who played Yvonne, is a case in point. She and her husband (who played the croupier) fled France ahead of the Germans with the intent of going to Chile, but when they got to Mexico it was discovered that their visas were forged. They were stuck in Mexico for a while, until they were able to obtain temporary Canadian passports and used those to go to the U.S. The similarity of her situation to Yvonne's wasn't lost on her. Her tears during the singing of La Marseillaise were real.
It really is as close to a perfect film as one can get. Like you said, the SLOW roll out of information keeps you so invested and guessing to the very end. And, yeah, Victor Laszlo might be the most undertanding human being that has ever been.
I totally enjoy watching young people discover the classics and this is one of the greatest classics. A movie that all others are judged by. That is why so many of the lines and scenes from this movie have been reused multiple times in multiple genres.
My first time seeing you, and I must say I appreciated your open mind towards older movies. There's such a rich vein of gold in the movies from the 1920s and towards the modern age. I also enjoyed your love for a good story and Casablanca is definitely one of the best. I hope you'll continue to explore the old black and whites. One of the greatest strengths of movies in black and white film is the art of lighting the scenes. Light and shadow are just as important as acting, directing and writing. Movies in colour don't have this ability. It's obvious that no one yet understood just how horrible the concentration camps were at this time. The dialogue makes them seem like just a prison in a camp version, instead of concrete walls. The actor who played Major Strasser was Conrad Veidt, already a famous actor during the silent movie era. His wife was Jewish and they managed to escape from Germany, while he gave as much of time and earnings as he could to help other refugees and the war effort. In the 1928 semi-silent movie, The Man Who Laughs, Veidt played a man who was disfigured in an accident, his face made into a permanent smile. Comic book writer/artist Jerry Robinson would be inspired by the image of Veidt as this character and create the greatest villain in the Batman comic books - the Joker.
So glad you enjoyed this classic movie, after some initial scepticism. Further viewings are definitely highly recommended, since there's really too much layering of detail in this masterpiece for anyone to take it all in at one sitting. For example, there were many memorable and/or funny lines ('jokes' may be a bit too crude a word for some of these subtle ironies) that were left out of this edit, so it's possible you may have missed them, and they're all delicious. (Possibly this is the most quotable/ often quoted movie after Monty Python and the Holy Grail!). Listening carefully with full attention may only be possible when you're not under pressure to 'react'/ comment . Aside from the script, the movie is also enriched by a number of telling visual ironies and metaphors, like the wording on a poster in front of which a man is shot near the beginning and the bottle of Vichy water thrown in the bin and kicked near the end, all with strong meaning if you know a bit about the history. As for the cinematography itself, which you didn't mention at all, it's well worth a full watch-through with the focus on that alone. You'll (hopefully) begin to see how filming in B&W - something we may understand today as a limitation - was actually a spur to tremendous visual creativity in movie-making, a lost art unfortunately in this current era's typical Hollywood CGI-heavy, full colour blockbusters. In any older B&W movie, especially the film noir genre, be sure to check out the artistic use of shadow, lighting and spatial composition in which the monochrome format can offer a spectrum of nuances that enhance the action, play on the emotions and delight the eye, once you start looking for them...
Lots of layers to this that a contemporary audience would have understood. For example, when Rick mentions that it is December 1941 and that people were asleep all over America it is a reference to the surprise attack on Pearl Harbour that drew the USA into the war. And Louis’ trashing of the bottle of Vichy water at the end was symbolic of his rejection of the wartime Vichy regime in France that had subordinated itself to the Nazis. Lots more. Maybe the best screenplay ever written, which is truly remarkable because it was produced in chaotic circumstances.
Another big symbol folks would have recognized was the Cross of Lorraine - which was on the pamplets the man shot at the beginning of the movie was carrying, and also the ring Berger the Norweigen showed to Lazlo in the club to secretly let Lazlo know they were on the same side.
@@dougearnest7590 In all the times I've watched this movie, this is the first time I caught Renault saying, "How's the jewelry business, Berger?" Suspect that Renault was aware of Berger's connection to the resistance and turned a blind eye.
The fact that Lazlo is a good man--a great man, even--makes Rick's moral dilemma that much more compelling. He has to rise to the occasion to do what's right.
Yes! There have been other love triangle movies where the two guys seem equally good and then, towards the end, one guy slaps the girl or kicks a puppy. And it's like, "Okay, I guess I am supposed to root for the other guy. Thanks for making the choice obvious." 🙄
The movie has so many great lines, and almost every line contributes to the plot. After Ilsa tells Rick why she didn't meet him at the station, that Lazlo was alive, Rick asks why she didn't tell him. Ilsa says she knew Rick would try to help and the Gestapo would have caught him. (And we knew the Gestapo was after Rick.) So Ilsa didn't ask for Rick's help to protect Rick, to let him escape Paris and the Gestapo. It's a quick line, but it is set up throughout the film and reveals so much, about Ilsa's love for Rick.
The slow reveal of Casablanca is rarely repeated. Ilsa dated Rick because she thought Laslo had been killed escaping the concentration camp. Then she learned he was alive on the eve of leaving with Rick. She stands up Rick at the train station without explaining why. It hardened him so much that he didn't want to hear her reasons why. Eventually Laslo figures it out because he's smarter than Rick. Such a delightful slow burn, with wit and suspense.
A kid I'm tutoring (in elementary school -- lol, don't ask) recently told me they're starting to be taught cursive in school again. Small victories I guess.
Cursive is a way that us older folks can write each other in Code. The younger generation often mention that they cannot read anything that is handwritten in that style.
I take your point about going into a movie cold, with no potential spoilers. However, in some movies (particularly those with a historical background, such as this one), it would definitely have been worthwhile understanding more about WWII and especially the relationship of France with Nazi Germany. For example, France was split into two (which this movie highlights). There was ‘Free France’ and ‘Vichy France’. The former speaks for itself, while the latter was Nazi-occupied. If you remember, towards the end, Captain Renault pours himself a glass of water; then, after realising it was bottled in Vichy France, he throws the bottle away in disgust. This highlights that Renault is also fundamentally a Free French patriot who despises the Nazis, but one taking the easy life and capitulating in order to keep himself safe from the Nazi war machine. If you’re interested, research this and I’m sure, even now, you’ll glean a better and more fulfilling understanding of the entire movie.
And at the time the movie was made, she was married to Marcel Dalio, the actor who plays Emil, the croupier. The couple had fled from occupied France to the NewWorld via Lisbon--much as the refugees in "Casalanca" are attempting to do. (However, Lebeau and Dalio divorced shortly after the film was released.)
This movie is a lot more than a love story. Terrific and powerful movie filmed during the worst times of WWII when the allies were getting their butts kicked and immigrants were running for their lives. However, what really made this movie great, in addition to the great writing, directing and acting, was that many of the movie cast members were not acting -- they actually lived the Casablanca experience in real life. Ingrid Bergman from Sweden was also a film actress in Nazi Germany where she fled the Nazi Regime for the U.S. Many other key and very diverse cast members also fled Nazi invaded countries trying to escape Europe for the United States or anywhere else, but many of their family in Europe did not survive the War. During the scene in Rick's Cafe when they played the rousing French National Anthem "La Marseillaise" to drown out the Nazis, those were real tears flowing in the Cafe from the cast. They did not have to act in that film. Their countries were destroyed. There was no forced "dead time" during the very fast paced and short run-time movie -- it was all beef. No big computer generated graphics and high tech animations, special effects, or swear words to cover weak actor performances, poor dialog, a weak story, or lousy filming. This movie had "density," tension, emotion, romance, personal sacrifice, resistance, honor, and devotion. It is one of the greatest movies ever made, despite some imperfections that all movies have.
Ingrid Bergman was beautiful. Not just her smile, her eyes. She didn't wear a lot of makeup, not plastic surgery. Just her natural beauty, illuminating.
@@t0dd000 Yeah, but even young girls are plumping up their lips and getting nose jobs and boob jobs before they're 25 these days. It's such an indictment of today's values. Of course Bergman was heavily made up in this movie, but the aim was to accentuate her natural look for the camera, not to present some fake Kardashian frankenstein. I feel this move towards caked on make up and plastic surgery is for other straight women more than to be attractive to men, who aren't into it; just like the men taking steroids and building massive slabs of muscle is for other guys--women don't like it.
Metaphorically, Rick represents all the reluctance of Americans to enter WWII. The strange dialog with Sam indicates it is December, 1941, which is the month of Pearl Harbor, and hence the moment where America decided to enter the war.
You can nail the date down precisely. At 4:34, Rick is initialing something and you can see it's dated "2 Décembre 41" -- just days before Pearl Harbor.
It wasn't so much that "America decided to enter the war"; that happened because the Japanese attacked the USA first and then America was forced to declare war in reaction.
@@hebneh Sure, but, in a time of war, the message, "We decided to release our bitterness and takes sides against evil" is better propaganda than "we dithered foolishly until we were forced into the war." This movie is shrewd propaganda disguised as a love story. (To be clear, I love this movie, in part because it is so shrewd. But it is wartime propaganda.) One other hint at the metaphor: the words "casa blanca" means "white house." And the emotional appeal of Paris for Americans can be heard on the WWII-era song, "The Last Time I Saw Paris." A lot of American soldiers after WWI were stationed in and around Paris, awaiting their ships home, and they were treated as heroes by the French, so it was a place of strong emotions for those who served in that war.
I loved your reaction to this classic film. For a bit of trivia. Humphrey Bogart was an expert chess player and prior to his becoming famous he would hustle chess games in Central Park New York. When we first see Rick he is playing chess and he has the black pieces. From seeing where the pieces are on the board, one can tell that he is playing what is known as the “French Defense”. Quite appropriate for this film.
33:07 "He's being so selfless, right now." Yeah. Victor Laszlo's a good man and Rick Blaine, cantankerous and abrasive as he may be, is _also_ a good man. He's been scorned and that's left a chip on his shoulder, but he's still a good man.
Yes. Lazlo is the more lofty ideals man, while Rick is just an everyday guy who does the right thing, sometimes despite himself. Moreover, they each both get where the other is coming from.
Great reaction to this amazing movie. Great stories never get old. Keep checking out those oldies! A little trivia: Conrad Veidt, who played the menacing Major Strasser was actually very much against the Nazi regime and not only raised vast amounts of money through various organization drives but also donated much of his personal fortune to help fund the Allied forces.
Veidt’s wife was Jewish, and they had had to flee Germany in 1933 (he was a well-known actor by then). When they arrived in Hollywood, Veidt was naturally given a lot of roles as Nazis. He stipulated that the Nazi characters he played should have no redeeming qualities, so that he could portrayed just how evil they were.
Wonderful reaction and review. I'm so glad you had the chance to watch it without knowing the key plot elements. For those of us who know the film backwards and forwards, it's great fun to see the impact it has on a sensitive viewer seeing for the first time. That said, this is one you can watch over and over, and the more you do, the more you'll "catch," and the better it gets, as all of those other things going on in the background (as you noted) fall more and more into place, and make central story even richer.
0:33 "I definitely had a bias against black and white films. I would still say that maybe I still _do,_ but I'm working through it, and luckily, the movies that I have watched, so far, have done a really great job at changing my perception, uh, of older movies." Oh. Well, let me recommend the movie _Arsenic and Old Lace._ It's from 1944. It's a good movie to watch if you want an illustration of just how _fiendishly_ irreverent we used to be.
The first time viewing Casablanca is always very impactful, but wait til you see it the second time! Now that you're familiar with the story and the characters, you'll be able to appreciate the details. There are lots of them, and they're wonderful too!
A trailblazing old B&W movie is 1933's "King Kong". Among other things, it had the first feature-length musical score written for an American "talkie" film.
Lovely reaction! I think it’s really important that Victor is not just a decent guy, but a genuine hero. He’s too much of a hero for Ilsa to love as a man, but his heroism is why Rick decides that his ability to continue the fight matters more than anything else. Because what Rick really wants, deep down, so deep that he doesn’t know it himself, is to be part of something bigger than himself.
Your reactions are always so intelligent and engaging! I'm glad that you're getting into old black and white movies. Here are some great ones you might like. I know I already commented some of these, but they're worth repeating! The Third Man (1949) features some of the greatest writing, acting, cinematography, and music that has ever been seen in cinema. It's classic film noir that was far ahead of it's time. It's worth mentioning that it features two of the actors from Citizen Kane; if you haven't seen that one, don't hesitate! Detective Story (1951) is almost entirely set in a single room, with an intensity of writing that will astonish you. It stars a young Kirk Douglas, and the topic is incredibly timely. Kind Hearts and Coronets (1949) is an unbelievably witty and wicked black comedy featuring Alec Guinness as twelve murder victims. It's one of the most clever and beautifully-written movies ever made. Yojimbo (1961) and Sanjuro (1962) are peerless Japanese films made by Kurosawa, starring Toshiro Mifune. Frankenstein, Dracula, Bride of Frankenstein, and The Fly (which stars a relative of mine) are all exceptional B&W horror movies. Freaks (1932) is another one, and it's guaranteed to stick in your head forever. It's darker than you might expect. Carnival of Souls (1962) was made by a man who otherwise produced industrial training films, so it feels VERY different from most movies. It's another film that will haunt you. Wait, how could I have almost forgotten Night of the Living Dead (1968)? Here are some modern B&W films. In just about every case the director had to fight with the studio to keep it from being made in color: I'm pretty sure you've seen Young Frankenstein. The Elephant Man (1980), directed by David Lynch, is powerfully moving. Tim Burton's Ed Wood (1994) is wonderfully funny and shouldn't be missed. Forbidden Zone (1980) is...really weird. It's a cult film for sure, featuring the famous film composer (and former lead singer for Oingo Boingo) Danny Elfman as the Devil. Oh my god, what about Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid (1982)? There's nothing else like it! Not only is it a wonderfully funny Steve Martin movie, but it incorporates scenes from lots of classic B&W films. It's sure to turn you on to lots more classic oldies. Wings of Desire (1987) is German, and mostly IN German with some English by a famous American actor. But it's subtitled. It's haunting and lovely. It's supernatural, but not horror. It was remade by Hollywood, but the original is better. I assume you've seen Schindler's List (1993). If not, please do. Okay, I'll stop there. I didn't expect this to be so long!
oh, you will be rewatching this movie several more times and like all movies , learning something new every time ... this has been my favorite movie for years ... I really like the cinematography.... the use of shadow and light .... like when Rick opens his safe ... the sparkle in Ilsa's eyes in the dark when she has a close up .... the many aspects of things behind the scenes .... one spoiler .. the scene in the airplane hanger with the " BIG " plane in the background ,... was a cardboard cutout and the workers were midgets to make the plane look bigger
0:25 Yes! Just being old movies doesn’t mean they are not still great movies! This is my favorite era… Strangers on a train, Out of the Past, Notorious, Double Indemnity, Maltese Falcon, The Big Sleep, Sunset Boulevard, Roman Holiday and this one are the best
Conrad Viedt who played the Nazi Major Strasser was a famous German actor who fled Nazi Germany with his Jewish wife in 1933 when the Nazis came to power. I think I had seen or read that he insisted if he played this part that the character would be killed. There are many in the cast that this was a very personal film for them as they were refugees fleeing the Third Reich.
As I kid I used to hate black and white movies…but c’mon I was a kid. As a teen I feel in love with the classics. I don’t watch any new movies past the 2010s (just a couple) . One of my favorite actors and idols is Audrey Hepburn I adore her and some movies you have to watch are “Sabrina” “Roman Holiday” “My fair lady” . These ones are a must watch pls
As a kid I always watched black and white TV. I think I saw my first color TV show at a friend's house when I was 13. It happened to be Star Trek, the original series. So although I saw a few color movies at the theater, everything I saw on TV was black and white--including the Wizard of Oz. I'm pretty sure the first color movie I saw was Bambi--I cried!
Ah, yes, Audrey Hepburn. Let me second 'Sabrina' since it has Humphrey Bogart in it, as well, although 'Roman Holiday' is another great one. It was her first movie and it won her an Oscar.
Nice reaction. You should definitely check out more classics. Don’t think of them as just being old. That’s like saying the Mona Lisa is not a good painting due to its age. Black and white films aren’t old, they’re just different. It’s like comparing an oil painting to a watercolor.
I enjoyed all your follow up comments and analysis; I’m glad you’re working through your reluctance to watch b&w films (there are some gems out there).
You edited out one of the most famous catchphrases, "Here's looking at you, kid." That was supposedly a line that Bogart added. He would use it playing cards when it was someone's turn and they dawdled a bit. It was a polite way of saying, "We're waiting."
Loved it, Shadowcat, yet again! Honored to have watched that with you for the first time! Congratulations on getting this under your belt! I completely agree about making Laslo a sympathetic character was definitely a much more interesting choice than if they had just made him the villain. PS: Hey, Ingrid Bergman? She's in "Gaslight"! She's the one being gaslit! Also is in Hitchcock's "Notorious", which has the steamiest kisses I've seen in a movie, between her and Cary Grant. Ooo la la! 😃😄
There are some subtle things in the movie that would have been more obvious to audiences at the time. E.g. we hear that Rick fought in Spain, which means he was one of the about 3000 American volunteers who joined the Spanish civil war against the Fascists. That could also be where he befriended Sam, because, unlike in the US army at the time, in the International Brigade in Spain black and white soldiers fought side by side. The Civil War ended in 1939 (the Fascists won), the year before Rick met Ilse in Paris. Rick is also, aside from being an awesome character in his own right, a metaphor for a US that was still neutral in WW2 at the time of the events in the movie, but had the joined the Allies when the movie came out in '42. His policy of "not sticking his neck out for nobody" mirrors an isolationist America that still felt hurt by its losses in Europe in WW1, and didn't want to take sides and get involved in another great war. And Rick discreetly helping the occasional Czechoslovakian couple flee to America and letting members of the resistance work in his club, reflects a US that, while officially neutral, was offering a safe place for European refugees and secretly sharing intel with the Brits. Setting the movie in early December, 1941, would also have been very significant to a contemporary audience, because it means that it takes place immediately before the attack on Pearl Harbor. So Rick's decision to officially join the good fight, after meeting Ilse again made it personal for him, happens at the most a day or two before the US did the same after it got attacked.
This is one of my favorites. It was successful at the time and has become legendary since. One theme that would have resonated back then is sacrifice. Nearly everyone had a family member in the military. Those who weren't in the military had to deal with the rationing of food, gasoline, and other items. They were under rationing when they made this. Filmed in Hollywood to answer your question. You mentioned Berman's wardrobe - some fabrics they couldn't get, like silk (needed for parachutes). Lots of things were in short supply and needed "for the war effort." The bit that makes me pause is when Ilsa refers to the "boy" at the piano (I'm African-American, but old enough to use Black). But I put it down to the times and roll with it. There's no wasted dialog. The photography, lighting, dialog, acting, bit parts were all top notch.
Nicely done. It's easy to get lost watching this movie for the first time because so much happens so quickly and you really have to pay attention to get what is going on and why. We kind of get a glimpse of Rick's true character when he lets the young girl's husband win the money to protect her honor. You got it all, even the nuanced stuff. The movie made an impression on many because ultimate selflessness of Rick to watch her fly away because it was what was best for her. Almost too many quotes to count from this movie and, of course, that song.
Greatest film of all time. It's not just a love story. It's a story of love. There are so many different loves in the film at so many levels. So glad you watched it. As we say in Texas; y'all be safe.
You also need to appreciate the time this movie was released, WWII was raging in Europe and the US was slowly being drawn into it and no one really knew how it would end.
Great reaction and analysis. Casablanca won the Academy Award for Best Picture of 1942. The script is a masterpiece, even though at the time that filming started they hadn't decided on an ending.
One of the best films ever made. So many intricacies involving the stories in the city itself in wartime as this great love story unfolds with such terrific actors and character actors. Terrific writing and direction and camerawork and lighting, which is particular to black and white films, along with great sets and costumes. I love watchng people encounter the film for the first time.
When this movie was made 99% of the world smoked some form of tobacco. Women often used a ceramic filter to the cigarettes to look more classic. Men often rolled their own. The health problems associated with the smoking were largely ignored. Good reaction. Keep looking. Another one with Bogart you would like is "The African Queen". Another black and white film you might like is "Harvey" staring Jimmy Stewart.
Harvey and I sit in the bars... have a drink or two... play the juke box. And soon the faces of all the other people they turn toward mine and they smile. And they're saying, "We don't know your name, mister, but you're a very nice fella." Harvey and I warm ourselves in all these golden moments. We've entered as strangers - soon we have friends.
My father and two uncles died aged 48 from smoking 40/60 cig. a day, starting at 13 with cheapos and graduating to strong Golouas and Gitane. Actually one started aged 6 picking up butts and buying paper to roll.My dad's close co-worker died at 39(100daily) My friends call me a no-smoke extremist , well, I have reasons.
If you’d like another convoluted romance story, check out another of my top 10 all-time favourite films. It’s Billy Wilder’s “THE APARTMENT” (1960), which can be considered as one of the original ‘rom-coms’ except that it’s more of a ‘romantic comedy-drama’. In fact, personally, I’d say its a romance-drama, with comedy (or, more correctly, light-hearted) moments. Excellent film.
You're right, shadowcat, that most romantic movies -- and most movies in general -- are dumbed down, making it easy for the audience to root for the protagonist and to enjoy the inevitable happy ending. That's fine, I suppose, if all you're looking for is simple, shallow entertainment. But the greatest films, like Casablanca, will go much deeper, respecting the viewer's intelligence and sometimes even challenging their values. Anyway, that's enough pontificating from me. I enjoyed the reaction!!
this film is a great example of the collaborative and serendipitous miracle that is filmmaking. the story was written based on the writers current experiences in europe as the nazis were rising to power; Rick's cafe was based on a club the writers visited that was a crossroads for colorful, desperate characters and criminals of all sorts moving through europe due to the pending war; Rick represents the u.s. that had not yet entered the war, he even says "i stick my neck out for no one", and then notes "they're asleep all across America". the screen rights were bought, the film put into production while the outcome of the war was still in question. when the film was about to be finished, the u.s. had just entered the war, and the allies made their first landings in Africa- in Casablanca! so the name was front page war news, and splashed all across theater marquees at the same time! and 1 more: the film ending kept being rewritten, frustrating the actors who didn’t know what who was going to wind up with who, what they were playing at, or how the story would end; this difficult situation ended up exactly paralleling their character's predicament which then came through in the actor's performances.
The scene where Captain Renault closes the club never fails to make me laugh. Renault may be one of best examples of a corrupt cop who also happens to be one of the good guys.
Hollywood films at this time were filmed on elaborate studio sets because 1) location filming was much more expensive and 2) so that the art director and cinematographer could carefully convey atmosphere. For instance the excellent Adventures of Robin Hood (1938) exteriors were shot in northern California even though the story takes place in England and it's filmed in beautiful Technicolor if you want to watch a movie filmed in color from this period. You should. It's one of the best. And your reaction to Casablanca is superb. Best wishes!
I want to see someone react to that movie. Another classic. Of course, we'll leave off the dubious allegiance of Errol Flynn and his serious criminal record.
' @Yun-yd1im I think Flynn was loyal to Australia, after all that was where he came from, And as for his 'criminal record, it was a different time and he never murdered anyone, I'm not defending him, I'm just not condemning him for living his life in the first half if the 20th Century in Hollywood..
It is more than it takes place during WW 2. The film takes place during the first week of December, 1941, mere days prior to Pearl Harbor and the United States entry into the war. That is why the line about America being asleep. One of the things you should look for if you re-watch the film, and you should, is the way light and shadow is used. In the beginning Rick is lit with half shadow (like Venetian blinds), the Germans are more in shadow, and Lazlo is in full light. This shows the character of the individuals. Also the airport beacon is shown continually sweeping the town as if seeking truth. Light and shadow are extremely important to the story.
At the 35:22 mark you can clearly see a white orb fly to Cat's left and again five seconds later at the 35:27 mark in this video. Great reaction BTW Cat.
Several famous quotes from this movie went typically sailing right over your head, and in the youtube version you skipped right over the funniest line in the movie "I am shocked to find gambling going on..." and the man walks up and says "You winnings sir..." Quotes: "Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, she walks into mine." "Here's looking at you Kid." "We'll always have Paris." "Round up the usual suspects" [ in my day often heard elementary school prinicpals say that whenever there was a fight on the playground lol].
New subscriber... Like others, I am happy to see that classic films like 'Casablanca' (the scene of the Battle of Anthems in Rick's Cafe is my favorite) are being discovered and appreciated by younger generations. Your comment about "practical effects" was a definite plus. Much Love and Best Wishes!
17:47 _Do we know how long ago that was_ About a year and a half. Paris was occupied in the middle of June, 1940, and the movie is set in early December, 1941, just before the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Please do The Wizard of Oz! It's probably the only other movie from that Hollywood studio period that's ranked in the Top 10 of all time, with Casablanca. There are many others you would enjoy, so I look forward to more classic reactions.
Paris fell on June 14th, 1940. The film takes place in the first week of December, 1941. The film was released at the end of 1942, and the audience would have been well aware of the timeline.
The writing slowly draws you in further. The acting ...just a fantastic movie. I never get tired of watching. Loved your reaction and beauty. Lazlo is a very romantic character. New sub.
If you note when the movie was made there was no possibility they could make it in Casablanca. They're actually smoking cigarettes. People smoked like chimneys then. Soldiers were given them to calm their nerves (it doesn't really work, if you watch smokers carefully)
Great reaction ! I hope you continue on your journey of exploring black and white classics. One I would recommend is Gaslight (1944). I think you would find it fascinating to see where the word comes from.
Thanks for your reaction, shadowcat, so glad you enjoyed it. I watch this, or at least listen to the soundtrack, when I'm in a bad situation for instant inspiration. Yes, this was totally a soundstage shoot except for the two airport scenes.
Hi ! Thanks for commenting this movie. I love it so much and I’ve watched it so many times… Thanks to you, I have wondered today how long French Jewish actor Marcel Dalio (croupier) had stayed in America, and I discovered he and Madeleine Lebeau (Yvonne) were husband and wife… they divorced the following year ! I am glad you are taming black and white movies, you’ve got lots of gems to discover ! Greetings from France 🇫🇷
'Casablanca' was filmed in Hollywood; the airport is the old San Francisco airport, photos of it in the 1930s and 1940s are easily found. The sets of Rick's Cafe were actually re-used or 'standing' sets for the most part, which is why the interior arrangement of the rooms doesn't make much sense. The airfield at the end is an interior 'sound stage', just misted up and the floor wetted down. The aeroplanes are almost all models, except at the airport itself. It was actually shot cheaply and quickly, and without a complete script until the shooting was almost over. In it's way, it's very like the style of filmmaking that would arrive in the 1960s, 'guerrilla filmmaking', where real places were adapted for the shots needed and done quickly, sometimes without permission.
‘Casablanca’ is renowned and is justly acknowledged as one of the most romantic films of all time but it is much more than the tale of a love triangle. Of course, it shows that the power of love can affect the human psyche, as demonstrated by Rick’s metamorphosis, but, actually, the film is one of the most subtle pieces of propaganda ever made. Made in the bleakest times of WW2, this film has so many levels to it that it takes many viewings to appreciate them. The main theme is not romance but self-sacrifice as its message to the world at war is to give up the personal agenda for the common cause. It reminds wartime audiences, many of whom have loved ones fighting abroad, that their situation is the same as that of Rick, Ilsa and Victor. Rick’s initial selfishness, (‘I stick my neck out for nobody’ and ‘the problems of the world are not in my department…’), is a metaphor for USA indifference. It must be remembered that the events and politics are harder to comprehend and put into perspective for current audiences than for those living through WW2, not knowing who the victors would be. The script can be considered as a 'State of the Union' address, both for home and foreign policies, in which there are references to Civil Rights, as embodied in Sam and, of course, the debate about America’s involvement in the conflict. Basically, the film is politically motivated because it is a plea to America to join the war. Please note that the action takes place in pre-Pearl Harbour, December, 1941. The screenplay is so intelligently written. It is a masterpiece of complexity, containing subliminal political opinions and messages all carried along on a thrilling plot with brilliant one-liners and memorable quotes, together with comedic elements and contemporary, social commentaries. Even the support actors make major contributions to the enjoyment. There are also many ‘adult’ themes which escaped the censors: one example is the scene between Rick and the Bulgarian bride which suggests Renault was willing to be involved in underage sex/ménage a trois. Another is Rick’s and Ilsa’s last tryst in which it is clearly implied that they have made love. Michael Curtiz’s direction is multi-faceted: Documentary, Film Noir, German Expressionism, Flashback etc. He is the master of creating the plot via seamlessly connecting a series of rapid-fire vignettes. There is subtle direction and cinematography. For example, Ilsa wears black and white clothes and is cast in shadows and in a mirror which symbolise the ambiguity of her role. POINTS OF INTEREST AND NOTES FOR SUBSEQUENT VIEWINGS. This is the the first non-musical movie to use music almost as an another protagonist, (which Tarantino does now). For example, ‘As Time Goes By’ is a valuable recurring theme and, in Paris, Rick and Ilsa dance to ‘Perfidia’ which means untrustworthiness. Also, ‘Love for Sale’ is played during the dialogue when the Bulgarian girl tells Rick about her ‘offer’ from Renault. Each character represents a country e.g. Two Japanese plotting; the Italian on the tail of the German; American indifference; French collaborators; the British robbed by foreign policy. Even the Balkan problem , (still ongoing), is mentioned via the Bulgarian couple. Quite evidently, Rick’s actions symbolise the USA in its change in policy from isolationism to participation and ‘….the beginning of a beautiful friendship…’ is the USA and Europe joining forces to fight Nazism. The significance of Letters of Transit is a metaphor for the might of America’s power and resources and must be delivered to the right side. Victor often tells Isla that he loves her but she never reciprocates, except for saying ‘ I know’. She tells Rick she loves him several times. The ‘La Marseillaise’ scene is the pivotal moment in which both Ilsa and Rick realise that saving Victor is more important than their own personal relationship. It also comes in just as Rick and Victor are about to argue over Ilsa but both drop the issue when they hear the music. This scene is rousing now but imagine how it must have felt for audiences right in the middle of the war when Germany seemed invincible and modern viewers need to put it in perspective in terms of world events full of Nazi and Japanese domination and when the outcome looked very bleak. The facial close-ups used throughout the film speak a thousand words: but particularly note Ilsa during ‘La Marseillaise’ when her expressions eventually show her admiration of Victor’s power and her realisation that this must be preserved at all costs. POINTS TO WATCH ‘It’s December, 1941 in Casablanca: what time is it in New York?... I bet they are asleep all over America’. PEARL HARBOUR ‘Even Nazis can’t kill that fast’ CONCENTRATION CAMPS ‘I don’t buy or sell human beings..’ CIVIL RIGHTS In any case... there is so much alcohol!!!! On this note, please watch out for glasses knocked over and glasses set upright… The Bulgarian couple keeps appearing many times as a symbol of hope and determination. In the bar room fight over Yvonne, Rick attacks the German only and not the Frenchman. Captain Renault dumps the bottle of Vichy water to represent his rejection of the Nazi- collaborating French Government which was located in Vichy. Just one example of the excellent and complex scriptwriting occurs immediately after the roulette scene. The girl thanks Rick for letting her husband win and Rick replies, ‘He’s just a lucky guy’, which, on the face of it, refers to the gambling, but, in Rick’s mind, means that the husband is ‘lucky’ because his partner truly loves him. Please imagine what hope the dialogue must have projected when Ilsa states that she’ll wear the blue dress again when Paris is liberated. Nobody then knew when this would be. The quotes from the film are now embedded in popular culture and are mostly said by Rick. However, Captain Renault has some of the best lines: e.g. when asking Rick why he had to leave America, he says, ‘I’d like to think you killed a man: it’s the romantic in me’ ; a gunshot to his heart would be his ‘..least vulnerable part..’; when told where the Letters of Transit were hidden in the piano, ‘’…it’s my fault for not being musical…’: on making the bet with Rick, …’make it 10,000 - I’m only a poor corrupt official…’ The end-product is a combination of superb screenwriting/ direction/acting and every other production aspect combined with a modicum of unpredictable luck. As I’ve said, ‘Casablanca’ requires multiple viewings and gets better with age and even its theme song, ‘As Time Goes By’ serendipitously reflects this!!
A fine example of the ultimate Hollywood product from the Golden Age, featuring a melodramatic, fast-paced script and a splendid cast of Hollywood stars, from top to bottom. So well put together, and all shot on soundstages. Released during the war. So it was topical. Best Picture of 1942. Thanks for the splendid commentary.
I think this movie's reputation as one of the greatest love stories of all time is kind of to its detriment because, as you said, it gives modern viewers the wrong idea about the tone and how the story will unfold. Yes, it's a love story, but it's a complicated lover story full of broken hearts and misunderstandings. Also like a lot of movies from the era, it is also very symbolic of the time. This movie released after the USA entered WWII, but it's based on a play that was written long before it, and you can see it in the way the characters are written. Rick represents America, and his reluctance to get involved or take a stance represents how the US didn't want to get involved in the War at first, and him giving up Ilsa for the sake of her and her husband's ideals represents the US finally taking up arms and joining the war in a way. Same with Captain Renault, who spends the majority of the movie just enjoying himself, not really all that invested in the Nazis quarrels with Lazlo and avoiding doing his work symbolic of the way Vichy France was allied with the Axis, but only really for self-preservation until he helps Rick and symbolically puts the wine literally labeled Vichy in the trash, making him a patriot of his country again. Also, not so Fun Fact: The people in the bar singing were largely themselves refugees from France, so their emotional response to La Marseillaise isn't just acting.
I agree. On the other hand it's ability to be characterized as *merely* a great story about the complicated relationship between two ex-lovers is indicative of the brilliance of the movie: It succeeds completely on that level and can be enjoyed just for that. But it also works completely as an allegory for America's entry into WWII and doing the right thing despite high costs. I think I enjoy it most though in the context of history--the middle of the war, a time when the outcome was in no way a sure thing for anyone.
Thanks Shiny! Even though I knew the year this came out, it really didn't dawn on me that it was released during WWII like it should've. I really value your movie knowledge!
Thanks for reacting to this amazing classic. I first saw it in a film study class in high school and I've always loved it. It's fun to see it through someones first time seeing it.
My fav movie of all time. No it wasn’t made in Casablanca, it was made entirely on sound stages and there was great turmoil while the movie was being made. They didn’t even have a finished script until the final day of shooting. Also, knowobdy involved expected greatness from the movie, it was just one of 50 movies a year the studio made. They got lucky because the Battle of Casablanca took place weeks before the movie was released, so the name was in everyone’s mind. The movie is based off the script by Murray Burnet of a play that was never made called ‘Everybody Comes to Rick’s’. In 1938 Murray and his wife were on vacation in Vienna and found a night club with a blank jazz pianist that became the inspiration of Sam and Rick’s Cafe. The club was on neutral territory and was filled with costumers from all sides, and on a night Murray attended the real life singing competition took place.
This is a "timeless" movie for all generations. A lot of these older "Black and White" films with Humphrey Bogart, used a lot of the same supporting actors and actresses ... "the weasel", "the fat man", "the plump Club manager", and a male that tries to "go around the bases with young women", etc. and, they all play their parts so very well. Have you ever seen Spike Lee's first movie "She's Gotta Have It (1986)"? If not, you should because it is also a "Black and White" full length movie with an interesting topic (smile...smile).
It warms me to the bottom of my heart to see young people falling in love with Casablanca. Over the years, it will become even more meaningful to you. I was probably your age when I first saw it, and since then I've probably seen it 75 times. It means so much more to me now (at age 62) than it did when I saw 21. (I always tell young people who are reluctant about B&W film...sit with it for 15 minutes. If the movie is good, you'll soon forget about the absence of color.)
While filming, northern Africa was occupied by Nazis, putting Casablanca in a war zone. By the time of release, the Allied forces had retaken the region. Right before release, Winston Churchill and Roosevelt met in Casablanca, it was that safe.
The actor who played Strasser, Conrad Veidt, was deeply opposed to the Nazis. He was married to a Jewish woman and they fled Germany together in 1933 when it became illegal for Jews to work in the film or stage industry. He had put that he was a Jew on his paperwork, even though he wasn't, just because he refused to collaborate with anti-semites. The couple went to England and later Hollywood. Veidt had a strong German accent, so he knew he would be cast as Nazis, and he made it a condition that he would only play them if they were clearly villains. In his personal life, he gave most of his life savings to the English government for the war effort, and also managed to have his wife's parents smuggled out of Germany. During the silent film era he had played the gay lead in what might be called the first gay-sympathizing movie ever made, Different From The Others. He was a person ahead of his time.
Old films were not about practical effects or any “effects”. They were about telling great stories, cinematography (and many B&W films are exquisitely filmed), great acting and writing.
Someone else already stated it, but the musical battle in the bar is one of the most authentic and powerful scenes of classic movies. There's a really simple reason.
The majority of the extras were exiles and refugees from German occupied Europe, and this was filmed as the war was going on.
The excitement in their voices and their tears were not acting at all. Those were the emotional responses of people who were literally singing defiance against the Germans and one of their marching songs. To portray the sound of a nation being free and drowning out the Germans by their voices was a victory that they needed.
The German song is the Wacht am Rhein, which became popular during the Franco-Prussian war and had a resurgence of popularity during both world wars - but with the general population, not the Nazi party, which frowned on patriotic songs (other than the national anthem) that were not explicitly pro-Nazi, which of course a song that predated the Nazi party could not be. The filmmakers would have preferred to use the Nazi anthem, the Horst Wessel song, but that was under copyright, which would have forced the studio to pay royalties to the enemy, unless they restricted themselves to showing the film only in Allied countries and no neutral ones. So they used the Wacht am Rhein, even though in real life it is highly unlikely that this group of dedicated Nazis would have been singing it. One other divergence from history: there was no such thing as a letter of transit. The writers invented that as a plot device.
@@richardzinns5676fascinating!!
@@richardzinns5676 It's just as well we didn't have to hear the f-ing Nazi song....royalties or not...
@@richardzinns5676 Thank you for the correction. I appreciate the more clear understanding of what was being sung.
true.. . a sure top 5 flick I'd think thou 'personal preference / style is a factor. minor ps - the airport is Van nuys in eastern LA. been there but didn't think to see if there were any memorabilia.
Casablanca was made in the middle of World War 2 with 3 years of the war still to go and the outcome very much in doubt. It was filmed at the studio in California. Many of the extras were actually people who had been refugees and had fled Europe. Thanks for reacting to these older films and bringing them to new audiences!!
Some of the aspects of characters in the film such as: keeping secrets, hiding identities, telling partial truths, being reluctant to explain everything, being willing to make sacrifices for the greater good, understanding that there are things more important than personal happiness - these were traits that became understandable to audiences in a time of war, especially in places where the “underground” had to operate in secret, and when people knew their loved ones had been (or would be) killed, captured or tortured. So the ideas of secrecy, and self-sacrifice became more common.
Luckily, at the end, Capt Renault realized that he couldn’t stand the Nazi oppression any more - so he dropped the bottle of Vichy water (symbolizing the collaborationist French govt headquartered in Vicky, France) into the trash and kicked it away. He signals that he is now willing to join the “Free French” movement who fought against the German occupation, and that he and Rick will have to “disappear” from Casablanca.
The timeless love triangle plus the tragedies of wartime blend together beautifully in this script.
How eloquently you explained this film’s moral premise.
Only 4 members of the cast were Americans: Rick, Sam, the girl asking Rick for help, and the doorman refusing entrance to the gambler. Some were Brits, many were refugees from the war. The guy playing Strasser fled Germany because his wife was Jewish. Many broke out in real tears when the dueling anthems scene was filmed.
The drunk lady 'Yvonne' and the casino boss were in real life married - refugees from Fra. thru Lisbon, as in the flick.and ' the girl ' was I gather a daughter of Warners boss. ' daddy, can I be in a picture '?
Omg I bawl my eyes out there every single I watch it. It's so powerful. So much strength in them.
@@rickc661Thank you for correcting me. I’d always thought she was a niece but she was Jack Warner’s stepdaughter. (He ran the studio.)
Strasser was played by Conrad Veidt, who among other things, was the original physical template for the Joker, in his movie The Man Who laughs.
@@markdenio4537 Which explains why the girl is a Bulgarian refugee who doesn't have a Bulgarian accent.
THANKS for being open to one of the greatest 20th-century American English-language films!!!!
I have watched the movie probably 100x in the last 55 yrs. I never get tired of it.
Same. Greatest
And it deserves 100 more lol.
It's very easy to miss that Lazlo is shocked when Rick tells him to ask his wife. No one is supposed to know they are married.
Most of the actors were actual refugees. That is one of the emotionality of the singing of “La Marseilles”
Yes. Madeleine Lebeau, who played Yvonne, is a case in point. She and her husband (who played the croupier) fled France ahead of the Germans with the intent of going to Chile, but when they got to Mexico it was discovered that their visas were forged. They were stuck in Mexico for a while, until they were able to obtain temporary Canadian passports and used those to go to the U.S. The similarity of her situation to Yvonne's wasn't lost on her. Her tears during the singing of La Marseillaise were real.
It really is as close to a perfect film as one can get. Like you said, the SLOW roll out of information keeps you so invested and guessing to the very end. And, yeah, Victor Laszlo might be the most undertanding human being that has ever been.
I totally enjoy watching young people discover the classics and this is one of the greatest classics. A movie that all others are judged by. That is why so many of the lines and scenes from this movie have been reused multiple times in multiple genres.
It's so rewarding to watch a movie for the first time and realize just how much of a cultural impact it had and continues to have!
My first time seeing you, and I must say I appreciated your open mind towards older movies. There's such a rich vein of gold in the movies from the 1920s and towards the modern age. I also enjoyed your love for a good story and Casablanca is definitely one of the best. I hope you'll continue to explore the old black and whites. One of the greatest strengths of movies in black and white film is the art of lighting the scenes. Light and shadow are just as important as acting, directing and writing. Movies in colour don't have this ability.
It's obvious that no one yet understood just how horrible the concentration camps were at this time. The dialogue makes them seem like just a prison in a camp version, instead of concrete walls.
The actor who played Major Strasser was Conrad Veidt, already a famous actor during the silent movie era. His wife was Jewish and they managed to escape from Germany, while he gave as much of time and earnings as he could to help other refugees and the war effort.
In the 1928 semi-silent movie, The Man Who Laughs, Veidt played a man who was disfigured in an accident, his face made into a permanent smile. Comic book writer/artist Jerry Robinson would be inspired by the image of Veidt as this character and create the greatest villain in the Batman comic books - the Joker.
So glad you enjoyed this classic movie, after some initial scepticism. Further viewings are definitely highly recommended, since there's really too much layering of detail in this masterpiece for anyone to take it all in at one sitting. For example, there were many memorable and/or funny lines ('jokes' may be a bit too crude a word for some of these subtle ironies) that were left out of this edit, so it's possible you may have missed them, and they're all delicious. (Possibly this is the most quotable/ often quoted movie after Monty Python and the Holy Grail!). Listening carefully with full attention may only be possible when you're not under pressure to 'react'/ comment .
Aside from the script, the movie is also enriched by a number of telling visual ironies and metaphors, like the wording on a poster in front of which a man is shot near the beginning and the bottle of Vichy water thrown in the bin and kicked near the end, all with strong meaning if you know a bit about the history.
As for the cinematography itself, which you didn't mention at all, it's well worth a full watch-through with the focus on that alone. You'll (hopefully) begin to see how filming in B&W - something we may understand today as a limitation - was actually a spur to tremendous visual creativity in movie-making, a lost art unfortunately in this current era's typical Hollywood CGI-heavy, full colour blockbusters. In any older B&W movie, especially the film noir genre, be sure to check out the artistic use of shadow, lighting and spatial composition in which the monochrome format can offer a spectrum of nuances that enhance the action, play on the emotions and delight the eye, once you start looking for them...
Lots of layers to this that a contemporary audience would have understood. For example, when Rick mentions that it is December 1941 and that people were asleep all over America it is a reference to the surprise attack on Pearl Harbour that drew the USA into the war. And Louis’ trashing of the bottle of Vichy water at the end was symbolic of his rejection of the wartime Vichy regime in France that had subordinated itself to the Nazis. Lots more. Maybe the best screenplay ever written, which is truly remarkable because it was produced in chaotic circumstances.
Another big symbol folks would have recognized was the Cross of Lorraine - which was on the pamplets the man shot at the beginning of the movie was carrying, and also the ring Berger the Norweigen showed to Lazlo in the club to secretly let Lazlo know they were on the same side.
@@dougearnest7590 In all the times I've watched this movie, this is the first time I caught Renault saying, "How's the jewelry business, Berger?" Suspect that Renault was aware of Berger's connection to the resistance and turned a blind eye.
Casablanca is on the shortlist for greatest movie of all time.
The fact that Lazlo is a good man--a great man, even--makes Rick's moral dilemma that much more compelling. He has to rise to the occasion to do what's right.
Agreed 100%!
Yes! There have been other love triangle movies where the two guys seem equally good and then, towards the end, one guy slaps the girl or kicks a puppy. And it's like, "Okay, I guess I am supposed to root for the other guy. Thanks for making the choice obvious." 🙄
Nothing I like more than a younger person enjoying an old classic movie, it warms my heart and gives me a little hope for the future.
The movie has so many great lines, and almost every line contributes to the plot.
After Ilsa tells Rick why she didn't meet him at the station, that Lazlo was alive, Rick asks why she didn't tell him. Ilsa says she knew Rick would try to help and the Gestapo would have caught him. (And we knew the Gestapo was after Rick.) So Ilsa didn't ask for Rick's help to protect Rick, to let him escape Paris and the Gestapo.
It's a quick line, but it is set up throughout the film and reveals so much, about Ilsa's love for Rick.
The slow reveal of Casablanca is rarely repeated. Ilsa dated Rick because she thought Laslo had been killed escaping the concentration camp. Then she learned he was alive on the eve of leaving with Rick. She stands up Rick at the train station without explaining why. It hardened him so much that he didn't want to hear her reasons why. Eventually Laslo figures it out because he's smarter than Rick. Such a delightful slow burn, with wit and suspense.
A kid I'm tutoring (in elementary school -- lol, don't ask) recently told me they're starting to be taught cursive in school again. Small victories I guess.
Cursive is a way that us older folks can write each other in Code. The younger generation often mention that they cannot read anything that is handwritten in that style.
I take your point about going into a movie cold, with no potential spoilers. However, in some movies (particularly those with a historical background, such as this one), it would definitely have been worthwhile understanding more about WWII and especially the relationship of France with Nazi Germany. For example, France was split into two (which this movie highlights). There was ‘Free France’ and ‘Vichy France’. The former speaks for itself, while the latter was Nazi-occupied. If you remember, towards the end, Captain Renault pours himself a glass of water; then, after realising it was bottled in Vichy France, he throws the bottle away in disgust. This highlights that Renault is also fundamentally a Free French patriot who despises the Nazis, but one taking the easy life and capitulating in order to keep himself safe from the Nazi war machine. If you’re interested, research this and I’m sure, even now, you’ll glean a better and more fulfilling understanding of the entire movie.
Great reaction to a true classic. Madeleine Lebeau (Yvonne) died just a few years ago; she had been the last surviving member of the cast.
And at the time the movie was made, she was married to Marcel Dalio, the actor who plays Emil, the croupier. The couple had fled from occupied France to the NewWorld via Lisbon--much as the refugees in "Casalanca" are attempting to do. (However, Lebeau and Dalio divorced shortly after the film was released.)
This film delights me, but I can't see it with fresh eyes; which is why I'm always happy to watch reaction videos. Thank you for this!
Thank you for watching! :)
This movie is a lot more than a love story. Terrific and powerful movie filmed during the worst times of WWII when the allies were getting their butts kicked and immigrants were running for their lives. However, what really made this movie great, in addition to the great writing, directing and acting, was that many of the movie cast members were not acting -- they actually lived the Casablanca experience in real life. Ingrid Bergman from Sweden was also a film actress in Nazi Germany where she fled the Nazi Regime for the U.S. Many other key and very diverse cast members also fled Nazi invaded countries trying to escape Europe for the United States or anywhere else, but many of their family in Europe did not survive the War. During the scene in Rick's Cafe when they played the rousing French National Anthem "La Marseillaise" to drown out the Nazis, those were real tears flowing in the Cafe from the cast. They did not have to act in that film. Their countries were destroyed. There was no forced "dead time" during the very fast paced and short run-time movie -- it was all beef. No big computer generated graphics and high tech animations, special effects, or swear words to cover weak actor performances, poor dialog, a weak story, or lousy filming. This movie had "density," tension, emotion, romance, personal sacrifice, resistance, honor, and devotion. It is one of the greatest movies ever made, despite some imperfections that all movies have.
An absolute classic.
May I recommend two other Humphrey Bogart films The Big Sleep and The Maltese Falcon.
Not sure what the resistance to b&w films is about, but overcoming that opens up so many more great movies to watch! Enjoy!
It had been a year and a half since Rick and Ilsa saw each other. The movie is set in December 1941 and the Germans rolled into Paris in June 1940.
Also, there are so many great black and white movies. One I would love to see you try is called Inherit The Wind.
How about From Here to Eternity? Also "It's a wonderful Life".@@dansdiscourse4957
Ingrid Bergman was beautiful. Not just her smile, her eyes. She didn't wear a lot of makeup, not plastic surgery. Just her natural beauty, illuminating.
Ah. Youth.
@@t0dd000 Yeah, but even young girls are plumping up their lips and getting nose jobs and boob jobs before they're 25 these days. It's such an indictment of today's values. Of course Bergman was heavily made up in this movie, but the aim was to accentuate her natural look for the camera, not to present some fake Kardashian frankenstein. I feel this move towards caked on make up and plastic surgery is for other straight women more than to be attractive to men, who aren't into it; just like the men taking steroids and building massive slabs of muscle is for other guys--women don't like it.
Metaphorically, Rick represents all the reluctance of Americans to enter WWII. The strange dialog with Sam indicates it is December, 1941, which is the month of Pearl Harbor, and hence the moment where America decided to enter the war.
You can nail the date down precisely. At 4:34, Rick is initialing something and you can see it's dated "2 Décembre 41" -- just days before Pearl Harbor.
Or it is the cut off point of being about to get from Lisbon to America. Historically.
It wasn't so much that "America decided to enter the war"; that happened because the Japanese attacked the USA first and then America was forced to declare war in reaction.
@@hebneh Sure, but, in a time of war, the message, "We decided to release our bitterness and takes sides against evil" is better propaganda than "we dithered foolishly until we were forced into the war." This movie is shrewd propaganda disguised as a love story. (To be clear, I love this movie, in part because it is so shrewd. But it is wartime propaganda.) One other hint at the metaphor: the words "casa blanca" means "white house."
And the emotional appeal of Paris for Americans can be heard on the WWII-era song, "The Last Time I Saw Paris." A lot of American soldiers after WWI were stationed in and around Paris, awaiting their ships home, and they were treated as heroes by the French, so it was a place of strong emotions for those who served in that war.
The German occupation of Paris was June 1940, and the story of Casablanca was set in December 1941, so a year and a half.
I loved your reaction to this classic film. For a bit of trivia. Humphrey Bogart was an expert chess player and prior to his becoming famous he would hustle chess games in Central Park New York. When we first see Rick he is playing chess and he has the black pieces. From seeing where the pieces are on the board, one can tell that he is playing what is known as the “French Defense”. Quite appropriate for this film.
Love you nerds!!!!!
Strasser, Renault and Borelli do such a brilliant job of illustrating the relationship between Germany Italy and Vichy France.
33:07 "He's being so selfless, right now."
Yeah. Victor Laszlo's a good man and Rick Blaine, cantankerous and abrasive as he may be, is _also_ a good man. He's been scorned and that's left a chip on his shoulder, but he's still a good man.
Yes. Lazlo is the more lofty ideals man, while Rick is just an everyday guy who does the right thing, sometimes despite himself. Moreover, they each both get where the other is coming from.
Great reaction to this amazing movie. Great stories never get old. Keep checking out those oldies! A little trivia: Conrad Veidt, who played the menacing Major Strasser was actually very much against the Nazi regime and not only raised vast amounts of money through various organization drives but also donated much of his personal fortune to help fund the Allied forces.
Veidt’s wife was Jewish, and they had had to flee Germany in 1933 (he was a well-known actor by then). When they arrived in Hollywood, Veidt was naturally given a lot of roles as Nazis. He stipulated that the Nazi characters he played should have no redeeming qualities, so that he could portrayed just how evil they were.
Wonderful reaction and review. I'm so glad you had the chance to watch it without knowing the key plot elements. For those of us who know the film backwards and forwards, it's great fun to see the impact it has on a sensitive viewer seeing for the first time.
That said, this is one you can watch over and over, and the more you do, the more you'll "catch," and the better it gets, as all of those other things going on in the background (as you noted) fall more and more into place, and make central story even richer.
0:33 "I definitely had a bias against black and white films. I would still say that maybe I still _do,_ but I'm working through it, and luckily, the movies that I have watched, so far, have done a really great job at changing my perception, uh, of older movies."
Oh. Well, let me recommend the movie _Arsenic and Old Lace._ It's from 1944. It's a good movie to watch if you want an illustration of just how _fiendishly_ irreverent we used to be.
You made me laugh when you said 'I don't currently have a child', like sometimes you do, sometimes you don't. 🤣
Currently means presently. That's not off and on.
@@Eowyn187 Fun has left the building.
The first time viewing Casablanca is always very impactful, but wait til you see it the second time! Now that you're familiar with the story and the characters, you'll be able to appreciate the details. There are lots of them, and they're wonderful too!
A trailblazing old B&W movie is 1933's "King Kong". Among other things, it had the first feature-length musical score written for an American "talkie" film.
This is a brilliant movie. The lighting is perfect and the acting impeccable.
As is of course! And the directing, and the music, etc.
Great react… you really got a lot of the subtle humor in the dialogue. So hard to find these days. Keep’em coming!!
Lovely reaction!
I think it’s really important that Victor is not just a decent guy, but a genuine hero. He’s too much of a hero for Ilsa to love as a man, but his heroism is why Rick decides that his ability to continue the fight matters more than anything else. Because what Rick really wants, deep down, so deep that he doesn’t know it himself, is to be part of something bigger than himself.
Your reactions are always so intelligent and engaging! I'm glad that you're getting into old black and white movies. Here are some great ones you might like. I know I already commented some of these, but they're worth repeating!
The Third Man (1949) features some of the greatest writing, acting, cinematography, and music that has ever been seen in cinema. It's classic film noir that was far ahead of it's time. It's worth mentioning that it features two of the actors from Citizen Kane; if you haven't seen that one, don't hesitate!
Detective Story (1951) is almost entirely set in a single room, with an intensity of writing that will astonish you. It stars a young Kirk Douglas, and the topic is incredibly timely.
Kind Hearts and Coronets (1949) is an unbelievably witty and wicked black comedy featuring Alec Guinness as twelve murder victims. It's one of the most clever and beautifully-written movies ever made.
Yojimbo (1961) and Sanjuro (1962) are peerless Japanese films made by Kurosawa, starring Toshiro Mifune.
Frankenstein, Dracula, Bride of Frankenstein, and The Fly (which stars a relative of mine) are all exceptional B&W horror movies. Freaks (1932) is another one, and it's guaranteed to stick in your head forever. It's darker than you might expect. Carnival of Souls (1962) was made by a man who otherwise produced industrial training films, so it feels VERY different from most movies. It's another film that will haunt you.
Wait, how could I have almost forgotten Night of the Living Dead (1968)?
Here are some modern B&W films. In just about every case the director had to fight with the studio to keep it from being made in color:
I'm pretty sure you've seen Young Frankenstein. The Elephant Man (1980), directed by David Lynch, is powerfully moving. Tim Burton's Ed Wood (1994) is wonderfully funny and shouldn't be missed. Forbidden Zone (1980) is...really weird. It's a cult film for sure, featuring the famous film composer (and former lead singer for Oingo Boingo) Danny Elfman as the Devil.
Oh my god, what about Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid (1982)? There's nothing else like it! Not only is it a wonderfully funny Steve Martin movie, but it incorporates scenes from lots of classic B&W films. It's sure to turn you on to lots more classic oldies.
Wings of Desire (1987) is German, and mostly IN German with some English by a famous American actor. But it's subtitled. It's haunting and lovely. It's supernatural, but not horror. It was remade by Hollywood, but the original is better.
I assume you've seen Schindler's List (1993). If not, please do.
Okay, I'll stop there. I didn't expect this to be so long!
I truly love this film. It's easily in my top ten. What a great script with fantastic characters.
oh, you will be rewatching this movie several more times and like all movies , learning something new every time ... this has been my favorite movie for years ... I really like the cinematography.... the use of shadow and light .... like when Rick opens his safe ... the sparkle in Ilsa's eyes in the dark when she has a close up .... the many aspects of things behind the scenes .... one spoiler .. the scene in the airplane hanger with the " BIG " plane in the background ,... was a cardboard cutout and the workers were midgets to make the plane look bigger
0:25 Yes! Just being old movies doesn’t mean they are not still great movies! This is my favorite era… Strangers on a train, Out of the Past, Notorious, Double Indemnity, Maltese Falcon, The Big Sleep, Sunset Boulevard, Roman Holiday and this one are the best
I thoroughly enjoyed your reaction, Shadowcat (sorry, I forgot your name). Well done! I'll look forward to checking out more of your work.
My favourite film of all time. Thank you, and I'm glad you could appreciate it.
Conrad Viedt who played the Nazi Major Strasser was a famous German actor who fled Nazi Germany with his Jewish wife in 1933 when the Nazis came to power. I think I had seen or read that he insisted if he played this part that the character would be killed. There are many in the cast that this was a very personal film for them as they were refugees fleeing the Third Reich.
As I kid I used to hate black and white movies…but c’mon I was a kid. As a teen I feel in love with the classics. I don’t watch any new movies past the 2010s (just a couple) . One of my favorite actors and idols is Audrey Hepburn I adore her and some movies you have to watch are “Sabrina” “Roman Holiday”
“My fair lady” .
These ones are a must watch pls
I love my wife, but I also love Audrey Hepburn. How can anyone NOT love Audrey...
As a kid I always watched black and white TV. I think I saw my first color TV show at a friend's house when I was 13. It happened to be Star Trek, the original series. So although I saw a few color movies at the theater, everything I saw on TV was black and white--including the Wizard of Oz. I'm pretty sure the first color movie I saw was Bambi--I cried!
Ah, yes, Audrey Hepburn. Let me second 'Sabrina' since it has Humphrey Bogart in it, as well, although 'Roman Holiday' is another great one. It was her first movie and it won her an Oscar.
Nice reaction. You should definitely check out more classics. Don’t think of them as just being old. That’s like saying the Mona Lisa is not a good painting due to its age. Black and white films aren’t old, they’re just different. It’s like comparing an oil painting to a watercolor.
AMEN. Great movies are timeless.
I enjoyed all your follow up comments and analysis; I’m glad you’re working through your reluctance to watch b&w films (there are some gems out there).
Thank you!!
You edited out one of the most famous catchphrases, "Here's looking at you, kid." That was supposedly a line that Bogart added. He would use it playing cards when it was someone's turn and they dawdled a bit. It was a polite way of saying, "We're waiting."
Loved it, Shadowcat, yet again! Honored to have watched that with you for the first time! Congratulations on getting this under your belt! I completely agree about making Laslo a sympathetic character was definitely a much more interesting choice than if they had just made him the villain. PS: Hey, Ingrid Bergman? She's in "Gaslight"! She's the one being gaslit! Also is in Hitchcock's "Notorious", which has the steamiest kisses I've seen in a movie, between her and Cary Grant. Ooo la la! 😃😄
There are some subtle things in the movie that would have been more obvious to audiences at the time. E.g. we hear that Rick fought in Spain, which means he was one of the about 3000 American volunteers who joined the Spanish civil war against the Fascists. That could also be where he befriended Sam, because, unlike in the US army at the time, in the International Brigade in Spain black and white soldiers fought side by side.
The Civil War ended in 1939 (the Fascists won), the year before Rick met Ilse in Paris.
Rick is also, aside from being an awesome character in his own right, a metaphor for a US that was still neutral in WW2 at the time of the events in the movie, but had the joined the Allies when the movie came out in '42. His policy of "not sticking his neck out for nobody" mirrors an isolationist America that still felt hurt by its losses in Europe in WW1, and didn't want to take sides and get involved in another great war. And Rick discreetly helping the occasional Czechoslovakian couple flee to America and letting members of the resistance work in his club, reflects a US that, while officially neutral, was offering a safe place for European refugees and secretly sharing intel with the Brits.
Setting the movie in early December, 1941, would also have been very significant to a contemporary audience, because it means that it takes place immediately before the attack on Pearl Harbor. So Rick's decision to officially join the good fight, after meeting Ilse again made it personal for him, happens at the most a day or two before the US did the same after it got attacked.
This is one of my favorites. It was successful at the time and has become legendary since. One theme that would have resonated back then is sacrifice. Nearly everyone had a family member in the military. Those who weren't in the military had to deal with the rationing of food, gasoline, and other items.
They were under rationing when they made this. Filmed in Hollywood to answer your question. You mentioned Berman's wardrobe - some fabrics they couldn't get, like silk (needed for parachutes). Lots of things were in short supply and needed "for the war effort."
The bit that makes me pause is when Ilsa refers to the "boy" at the piano (I'm African-American, but old enough to use Black). But I put it down to the times and roll with it.
There's no wasted dialog. The photography, lighting, dialog, acting, bit parts were all top notch.
I know, every time I hear that line, it's like a skip in the record. Otherwise, a perfect film.
Nicely done. It's easy to get lost watching this movie for the first time because so much happens so quickly and you really have to pay attention to get what is going on and why. We kind of get a glimpse of Rick's true character when he lets the young girl's husband win the money to protect her honor. You got it all, even the nuanced stuff. The movie made an impression on many because ultimate selflessness of Rick to watch her fly away because it was what was best for her. Almost too many quotes to count from this movie and, of course, that song.
Taking it all the way back with a all-time classic , love it
Greatest film of all time. It's not just a love story. It's a story of love. There are so many different loves in the film at so many levels.
So glad you watched it.
As we say in Texas; y'all be safe.
You also need to appreciate the time this movie was released, WWII was raging in Europe and the US was slowly being drawn into it and no one really knew how it would end.
Great reaction and analysis. Casablanca won the Academy Award for Best Picture of 1942. The script is a masterpiece, even though at the time that filming started they hadn't decided on an ending.
One of the best films ever made. So many intricacies involving the stories in the city itself in wartime as this great love story unfolds with such terrific actors and character actors. Terrific writing and direction and camerawork and lighting, which is particular to black and white films, along with great sets and costumes. I love watchng people encounter the film for the first time.
I have been waiting for this one.
A true classic, called by many the best film ever made.
When this movie was made 99% of the world smoked some form of tobacco. Women often used a ceramic filter to the cigarettes to look more classic. Men often rolled their own. The health problems associated with the smoking were largely ignored. Good reaction. Keep looking. Another one with Bogart you would like is "The African Queen". Another black and white film you might like is "Harvey" staring Jimmy Stewart.
Harvey and I sit in the bars... have a drink or two... play the juke box. And soon the faces of all the other people they turn toward mine and they smile. And they're saying, "We don't know your name, mister, but you're a very nice fella." Harvey and I warm ourselves in all these golden moments. We've entered as strangers - soon we have friends.
My father and two uncles died aged 48 from smoking 40/60 cig. a day, starting at 13 with
cheapos and graduating to
strong Golouas and Gitane.
Actually one started aged 6
picking up butts and buying
paper to roll.My dad's close co-worker died at 39(100daily)
My friends call me a no-smoke
extremist , well, I have reasons.
If you’d like another convoluted romance story, check out another of my top 10 all-time favourite films. It’s Billy Wilder’s “THE APARTMENT” (1960), which can be considered as one of the original ‘rom-coms’ except that it’s more of a ‘romantic comedy-drama’. In fact, personally, I’d say its a romance-drama, with comedy (or, more correctly, light-hearted) moments. Excellent film.
Bogart loved chess. The game he is studying in Casablanca was one he was playing viia mail.
You're right, shadowcat, that most romantic movies -- and most movies in general -- are dumbed down, making it easy for the audience to root for the protagonist and to enjoy the inevitable happy ending. That's fine, I suppose, if all you're looking for is simple, shallow entertainment. But the greatest films, like Casablanca, will go much deeper, respecting the viewer's intelligence and sometimes even challenging their values. Anyway, that's enough pontificating from me. I enjoyed the reaction!!
this film is a great example of the collaborative and serendipitous miracle that is filmmaking. the story was written based on the writers current experiences in europe as the nazis were rising to power; Rick's cafe was based on a club the writers visited that was a crossroads for colorful, desperate characters and criminals of all sorts moving through europe due to the pending war; Rick represents the u.s. that had not yet entered the war, he even says "i stick my neck out for no one", and then notes "they're asleep all across America". the screen rights were bought, the film put into production while the outcome of the war was still in question. when the film was about to be finished, the u.s. had just entered the war, and the allies made their first landings in Africa- in Casablanca! so the name was front page war news, and splashed all across theater marquees at the same time! and 1 more: the film ending kept being rewritten, frustrating the actors who didn’t know what who was going to wind up with who, what they were playing at, or how the story would end; this difficult situation ended up exactly paralleling their character's predicament which then came through in the actor's performances.
This film came out in 1942 during WW II. That made it kind of impossible to film it in Casablanca.
As a matter of fact the movie was released very close to the time the allies took Casablanca, which might have impeded filming a bit.
@@paulcooper3611 It was filmed in a studio in California so hard to imagine any real delay.
The scene where Captain Renault closes the club never fails to make me laugh. Renault may be one of best examples of a corrupt cop who also happens to be one of the good guys.
Hollywood films at this time were filmed on elaborate studio sets because 1) location filming was much more expensive and 2) so that the art director and cinematographer could carefully convey atmosphere. For instance the excellent Adventures of Robin Hood (1938) exteriors were shot in northern California even though the story takes place in England and it's filmed in beautiful Technicolor if you want to watch a movie filmed in color from this period. You should. It's one of the best. And your reaction to Casablanca is superb. Best wishes!
Also, World War II was going on, and it would have been rather difficult to get to Casablanca.
I want to see someone react to that movie. Another classic.
Of course, we'll leave off the dubious allegiance of Errol Flynn and his serious criminal record.
' @Yun-yd1im
I think Flynn was loyal to Australia, after all that was where he came from, And as for his 'criminal record, it was a different time and he never murdered anyone, I'm not defending him, I'm just not condemning him for living his life in the first half if the 20th Century in Hollywood..
I second the recommendation of The Adventures of Robin Hood.
It is more than it takes place during WW 2. The film takes place during the first week of December, 1941, mere days prior to Pearl Harbor and the United States entry into the war. That is why the line about America being asleep.
One of the things you should look for if you re-watch the film, and you should, is the way light and shadow is used. In the beginning Rick is lit with half shadow (like Venetian blinds), the Germans are more in shadow, and Lazlo is in full light. This shows the character of the individuals. Also the airport beacon is shown continually sweeping the town as if seeking truth. Light and shadow are extremely important to the story.
At the 35:22 mark you can clearly see a white orb fly to Cat's left and again five seconds later at the 35:27 mark in this video. Great reaction BTW Cat.
The director was a Hungarian jew who fled the continent and went to Hollywood and took the name Michael Curtiz
Several famous quotes from this movie went typically sailing right over your head, and in the youtube version you skipped right over the funniest line in the movie "I am shocked to find gambling going on..." and the man walks up and says "You winnings sir..." Quotes: "Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, she walks into mine." "Here's looking at you Kid." "We'll always have Paris." "Round up the usual suspects" [ in my day often heard elementary school prinicpals say that whenever there was a fight on the playground lol].
His putting her on the plane to Lisbon with Lazlo is what raises the story to epic.
New subscriber... Like others, I am happy to see that classic films like 'Casablanca' (the scene of the Battle of Anthems in Rick's Cafe is my favorite) are being discovered and appreciated by younger generations. Your comment about "practical effects" was a definite plus. Much Love and Best Wishes!
17:47 _Do we know how long ago that was_
About a year and a half. Paris was occupied in the middle of June, 1940, and the movie is set in early December, 1941, just before the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Please do The Wizard of Oz! It's probably the only other movie from that Hollywood studio period that's ranked in the Top 10 of all time, with Casablanca. There are many others you would enjoy, so I look forward to more classic reactions.
It’s so much more enjoyable for us when it’s all new to the reactor. No research!!! Thank you!!!!!
🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Paris fell on June 14th, 1940. The film takes place in the first week of December, 1941. The film was released at the end of 1942, and the audience would have been well aware of the timeline.
While Ilsa idolized and admired Lazlo, she loved Rick. I love this movie.
The writing slowly draws you in further. The acting ...just a fantastic movie. I never get tired of watching. Loved your reaction and beauty. Lazlo is a very romantic character. New sub.
If you note when the movie was made there was no possibility they could make it in Casablanca.
They're actually smoking cigarettes. People smoked like chimneys then. Soldiers were given them to calm their nerves (it doesn't really work, if you watch smokers carefully)
Great reaction ! I hope you continue on your journey of exploring black and white classics. One I would recommend is Gaslight (1944). I think you would find it fascinating to see where the word comes from.
Yeah, a great and suspenseful movie, also with Ingrid Bergman!
Thanks for your reaction, shadowcat, so glad you enjoyed it. I watch this, or at least listen to the soundtrack, when I'm in a bad situation for instant inspiration. Yes, this was totally a soundstage shoot except for the two airport scenes.
Truly classic stuff. Really glad you dug it
Hi ! Thanks for commenting this movie. I love it so much and I’ve watched it so many times…
Thanks to you, I have wondered today how long French Jewish actor Marcel Dalio (croupier) had stayed in America, and I discovered he and Madeleine Lebeau (Yvonne) were husband and wife… they divorced the following year !
I am glad you are taming black and white movies, you’ve got lots of gems to discover !
Greetings from France 🇫🇷
Maybe the most all-time quote-laden movie ever made. Probably in my all time top 3 or 4 movies.
'Casablanca' was filmed in Hollywood; the airport is the old San Francisco airport, photos of it in the 1930s and 1940s are easily found.
The sets of Rick's Cafe were actually re-used or 'standing' sets for the most part, which is why the interior arrangement of the rooms doesn't make much sense.
The airfield at the end is an interior 'sound stage', just misted up and the floor wetted down. The aeroplanes are almost all models, except at the airport itself.
It was actually shot cheaply and quickly, and without a complete script until the shooting was almost over.
In it's way, it's very like the style of filmmaking that would arrive in the 1960s, 'guerrilla filmmaking', where real places were adapted for the shots needed and done quickly, sometimes without permission.
‘Casablanca’ is renowned and is justly acknowledged as one of the most romantic films of all time but it is much more than the tale of a love triangle. Of course, it shows that the power of love can affect the human psyche, as demonstrated by Rick’s metamorphosis, but, actually, the film is one of the most subtle pieces of propaganda ever made.
Made in the bleakest times of WW2, this film has so many levels to it that it takes many viewings to appreciate them. The main theme is not romance but self-sacrifice as its message to the world at war is to give up the personal agenda for the common cause. It reminds wartime audiences, many of whom have loved ones fighting abroad, that their situation is the same as that of Rick, Ilsa and Victor.
Rick’s initial selfishness, (‘I stick my neck out for nobody’ and ‘the problems of the world are not in my department…’), is a metaphor for USA indifference. It must be remembered that the events and politics are harder to comprehend and put into perspective for current audiences than for those living through WW2, not knowing who the victors would be.
The script can be considered as a 'State of the Union' address, both for home and foreign policies, in which there are references to Civil Rights, as embodied in Sam and, of course, the debate about America’s involvement in the conflict. Basically, the film is politically motivated because it is a plea to America to join the war. Please note that the action takes place in pre-Pearl Harbour, December, 1941.
The screenplay is so intelligently written. It is a masterpiece of complexity, containing subliminal political opinions and messages all carried along on a thrilling plot with brilliant one-liners and memorable quotes, together with comedic elements and contemporary, social commentaries. Even the support actors make major contributions to the enjoyment. There are also many ‘adult’ themes which escaped the censors: one example is the scene between Rick and the Bulgarian bride which suggests Renault was willing to be involved in underage sex/ménage a trois. Another is Rick’s and Ilsa’s last tryst in which it is clearly implied that they have made love.
Michael Curtiz’s direction is multi-faceted: Documentary, Film Noir, German Expressionism, Flashback etc. He is the master of creating the plot via seamlessly connecting a series of rapid-fire vignettes.
There is subtle direction and cinematography. For example, Ilsa wears black and white clothes and is cast in shadows and in a mirror which symbolise the ambiguity of her role.
POINTS OF INTEREST AND NOTES FOR SUBSEQUENT VIEWINGS.
This is the the first non-musical movie to use music almost as an another protagonist, (which Tarantino does now). For example, ‘As Time Goes By’ is a valuable recurring theme and, in Paris, Rick and Ilsa dance to ‘Perfidia’ which means untrustworthiness. Also, ‘Love for Sale’ is played during the dialogue when the Bulgarian girl tells Rick about her ‘offer’ from Renault.
Each character represents a country e.g. Two Japanese plotting; the Italian on the tail of the German; American indifference; French collaborators; the British robbed by foreign policy. Even the Balkan problem , (still ongoing), is mentioned via the Bulgarian couple. Quite evidently, Rick’s actions symbolise the USA in its change in policy from isolationism to participation and ‘….the beginning of a beautiful friendship…’ is the USA and Europe joining forces to fight Nazism.
The significance of Letters of Transit is a metaphor for the might of America’s power and resources and must be delivered to the right side.
Victor often tells Isla that he loves her but she never reciprocates, except for saying ‘ I know’. She tells Rick she loves him several times.
The ‘La Marseillaise’ scene is the pivotal moment in which both Ilsa and Rick realise that saving Victor is more important than their own personal relationship. It also comes in just as Rick and Victor are about to argue over Ilsa but both drop the issue when they hear the music. This scene is rousing now but imagine how it must have felt for audiences right in the middle of the war when Germany seemed invincible and modern viewers need to put it in perspective in terms of world events full of Nazi and Japanese domination and when the outcome looked very bleak.
The facial close-ups used throughout the film speak a thousand words: but particularly note Ilsa during ‘La Marseillaise’ when her expressions eventually show her admiration of Victor’s power and her realisation that this must be preserved at all costs.
POINTS TO WATCH
‘It’s December, 1941 in Casablanca: what time is it in New York?...
I bet they are asleep all over America’. PEARL HARBOUR
‘Even Nazis can’t kill that fast’
CONCENTRATION CAMPS
‘I don’t buy or sell human beings..’
CIVIL RIGHTS
In any case... there is so much alcohol!!!! On this note, please watch out for glasses knocked over and glasses set upright…
The Bulgarian couple keeps appearing many times as a symbol of hope and determination.
In the bar room fight over Yvonne, Rick attacks the German only and not the Frenchman.
Captain Renault dumps the bottle of Vichy water to represent his rejection of the Nazi- collaborating French Government which was located in Vichy.
Just one example of the excellent and complex scriptwriting occurs immediately after the roulette scene. The girl thanks Rick for letting her husband win and Rick replies, ‘He’s just a lucky guy’, which, on the face of it, refers to the gambling, but, in Rick’s mind, means that the husband is ‘lucky’ because his partner truly loves him.
Please imagine what hope the dialogue must have projected when Ilsa states that she’ll wear the blue dress again when Paris is liberated. Nobody then knew when this would be.
The quotes from the film are now embedded in popular culture and are mostly said by Rick. However, Captain Renault has some of the best lines: e.g. when asking Rick why he had to leave America, he says, ‘I’d like to think you killed a man: it’s the romantic in me’ ; a gunshot to his heart would be his ‘..least vulnerable part..’; when told where the Letters of Transit were hidden in the piano, ‘’…it’s my fault for not being musical…’: on making the bet with Rick, …’make it 10,000 - I’m only a poor corrupt official…’
The end-product is a combination of superb screenwriting/ direction/acting and every other production aspect combined with a modicum of unpredictable luck. As I’ve said, ‘Casablanca’ requires multiple viewings and gets better with age and even its theme song, ‘As Time Goes By’ serendipitously reflects this!!
A fine example of the ultimate Hollywood product from the Golden Age, featuring a melodramatic, fast-paced script and a splendid cast of Hollywood stars, from top to bottom. So well put together, and all shot on soundstages. Released during the war. So it was topical. Best Picture of 1942. Thanks for the splendid commentary.
I think this movie's reputation as one of the greatest love stories of all time is kind of to its detriment because, as you said, it gives modern viewers the wrong idea about the tone and how the story will unfold.
Yes, it's a love story, but it's a complicated lover story full of broken hearts and misunderstandings.
Also like a lot of movies from the era, it is also very symbolic of the time. This movie released after the USA entered WWII, but it's based on a play that was written long before it, and you can see it in the way the characters are written.
Rick represents America, and his reluctance to get involved or take a stance represents how the US didn't want to get involved in the War at first, and him giving up Ilsa for the sake of her and her husband's ideals represents the US finally taking up arms and joining the war in a way. Same with Captain Renault, who spends the majority of the movie just enjoying himself, not really all that invested in the Nazis quarrels with Lazlo and avoiding doing his work symbolic of the way Vichy France was allied with the Axis, but only really for self-preservation until he helps Rick and symbolically puts the wine literally labeled Vichy in the trash, making him a patriot of his country again.
Also, not so Fun Fact: The people in the bar singing were largely themselves refugees from France, so their emotional response to La Marseillaise isn't just acting.
I agree. On the other hand it's ability to be characterized as *merely* a great story about the complicated relationship between two ex-lovers is indicative of the brilliance of the movie: It succeeds completely on that level and can be enjoyed just for that. But it also works completely as an allegory for America's entry into WWII and doing the right thing despite high costs. I think I enjoy it most though in the context of history--the middle of the war, a time when the outcome was in no way a sure thing for anyone.
Well said- it is one of (is?) the greatest *movie* of all time, by almost unanimous consent.
Thanks Shiny! Even though I knew the year this came out, it really didn't dawn on me that it was released during WWII like it should've. I really value your movie knowledge!
@@shadowcatreacts I think the script literally landed at Warner Bros a week after the Pearl Habor attacks.
I'm not sure if anyone mentioned it, but look up "M".
Thanks for reacting to this amazing classic. I first saw it in a film study class in high school and I've always loved it. It's fun to see it through someones first time seeing it.
My fav movie of all time.
No it wasn’t made in Casablanca, it was made entirely on sound stages and there was great turmoil while the movie was being made. They didn’t even have a finished script until the final day of shooting. Also, knowobdy involved expected greatness from the movie, it was just one of 50 movies a year the studio made.
They got lucky because the Battle of Casablanca took place weeks before the movie was released, so the name was in everyone’s mind.
The movie is based off the script by Murray Burnet of a play that was never made called ‘Everybody Comes to Rick’s’. In 1938 Murray and his wife were on vacation in Vienna and found a night club with a blank jazz pianist that became the inspiration of Sam and Rick’s Cafe. The club was on neutral territory and was filled with costumers from all sides, and on a night Murray attended the real life singing competition took place.
This is a "timeless" movie for all generations. A lot of these older "Black and White" films with Humphrey Bogart, used a lot of the same supporting actors and actresses ... "the weasel", "the fat man", "the plump Club manager", and a male that tries to "go around the bases with young women", etc. and, they all play their parts so very well. Have you ever seen Spike Lee's first movie "She's Gotta Have It (1986)"? If not, you should because it is also a "Black and White" full length movie with an interesting topic (smile...smile).
It warms me to the bottom of my heart to see young people falling in love with Casablanca. Over the years, it will become even more meaningful to you. I was probably your age when I first saw it, and since then I've probably seen it 75 times. It means so much more to me now (at age 62) than it did when I saw 21. (I always tell young people who are reluctant about B&W film...sit with it for 15 minutes. If the movie is good, you'll soon forget about the absence of color.)
While filming, northern Africa was occupied by Nazis, putting Casablanca in a war zone. By the time of release, the Allied forces had retaken the region. Right before release, Winston Churchill and Roosevelt met in Casablanca, it was that safe.
The actor who played Strasser, Conrad Veidt, was deeply opposed to the Nazis. He was married to a Jewish woman and they fled Germany together in 1933 when it became illegal for Jews to work in the film or stage industry. He had put that he was a Jew on his paperwork, even though he wasn't, just because he refused to collaborate with anti-semites.
The couple went to England and later Hollywood. Veidt had a strong German accent, so he knew he would be cast as Nazis, and he made it a condition that he would only play them if they were clearly villains.
In his personal life, he gave most of his life savings to the English government for the war effort, and also managed to have his wife's parents smuggled out of Germany.
During the silent film era he had played the gay lead in what might be called the first gay-sympathizing movie ever made, Different From The Others. He was a person ahead of his time.
Old films were not about practical effects or any “effects”. They were about telling great stories, cinematography (and many B&W films are exquisitely filmed), great acting and writing.