The singing of La Marseillaise in the cafe gives me goosebumps too! Everytime! The people in the bar, many of them displaced refugees from across Europe (many of the actors in the film were real life refugees including Madeleine Lebeau who played Yvonne who we see tearfully singing the song), led by Victor Laszlo literally rise to their feet and unite to combat Nazi fascism. It reflects something Laszlo said earlier in the film: "What if you murdered all of us? From every corner of Europe hundreds, thousands, would rise to take our places. Even Nazis can't kill that fast." Also, the words of 'La Marseillaise" itself are particularly poignant (the English translation): "Grab your weapons, citizens! Form your battalions! Let us march! Let us march!" Andt the scene is a sort of microcosm showing the dynamics between the three main characters Rick, Victor and Ilsa. At first Rick is willing to sit back and allow the Nazis to sing, reflecting his stance to not get involved. But Victor is a man of action and cannot sit by and do nothing. Yet Rick gives the band leader a nod letting him know he approves of them playing the song. Laszlo unites the people and together they stand up to the Germans. Meanwhile, we see Ilsa, who is torn between her feeling for the two men, watching the whole thing and we see in her eyes the love and admiration she has for Victor.
The only three American-born actors in that entire movie are Humphrey Bogart (Rick), Dooley Wilson (Sam), and Joy Page, who played the young Bulgarian newlywed. Every other person you see onscreen was an immigrant, and most were refugees to America from a war that was still going on. Even the film's director, Michael Curtiz, directed under an Anglicized stage name: his birth name was Kertész Mihály when he was born in Budapest in 1886. When Laszlo says, "this time, I'm sure our side will win," that was far from certain at the time. The U.S. had not yet entered the war, and when the play was written, it was very much part of a propaganda push to try to get Americans involved. (Turns out it wasn't necessary, as Pearl Harbor was bombed about 11 months before the film version was made). Even so, nobody knew for sure how the war was going to go at that point.
When Rick says " It's December 1941. I bet people all over America are sleeping" He's talking about the US being neutral and unprepared for war. Rick's "I look out for myself" attitude is also symbolic of an America not wanting to get involved.
With most movies, once you have seen them, you have seen them but with great movies like Casablanca you can watch them over and over again and each time they say more to you than they did the previous time. You can never get tired of watching Casablanca.
The writing/screenplay is phenomenal. A lot of movies today don't have dialogue written this well. There's a reason that despite being over 80 years old, people still love it.
Ilsa is genuine: she loves both Rick and Victor, and they both love her. Rick is smoothing the emotional path for Victor and Ilsa to continue their love: and Victor, who has known from day one of his entrance into Rick's that there was something between Rick and Ilsa, understands what Rick is saying. And note, too, that he leaves the final decision to Ilsa. Note too, that her last words to Rick are "God bless you", which was how she ended her letter to him in Paris.
@@Aeolusdallas I think she loves both, but is intimidated by Lazlo (thinking of him as an image of a superman/freedom fighter), and thinking she is not worthy of him. Lazlo knows this and is why he says to Rick "I am also a man and love her" at the bar. So its a triad, Rick man's up and lets her go with Lazlo because he know she love both both of them, but in the long run she will be better/happier with Lazlo then with him. IMO. its in the bible somewhere, (I'm an Atheist BTW -lol) - "love is not grasping, but kind/etc"...........its a wise book mostly, some works are wiser than others, but overall it offers good counsel even to Atheists. ;-).
@@gaffo7836I wouldn’t use the word “intimidated” but she has great admiration for Victor. He’s an icon to her that she loves in one way, but loves Rick the way you typically understand a man and a woman being in love. Rick is actually demonstrating more than romantic love by protecting her through his sacrifice and giving her up. She will build a good life with Laszlo but will always have fondness and cherished memories in her heart for Rick.
@@crisjunfan2139 Well said Cris, I couldn't agree more. I hope Shandar reviews more "old' (as in really old - black and white) - movies. there are so many now forgotten films that deserve to be re-remembered/re-discovered. ;-/. Foreign films as well (not many foreign film reactors, none that i know of actually, one or two foreign film reviewers though - not enough either way ;-/. Thanks for reply, peace to you.
@@gaffo7836the New Testament scripture you quoted is from First Corinthians, chapter 13. It is often used as a reading at secular weddings because it does not mention God or Jesus. Worth checking out just as a classic piece of literature.
Sorry you had to cut so much out, but it was no real loss. Many of us know this film SO well, just watching your reaction, we KNEW which scene you were seeing. 😏 I'm surprised how well this film holds up, even 80 years later. No surprise that Casablanca is considered a classic. Thanks for watching. It was great to 'ride along' as you experienced it for the first time.
Still annoying, but what's really annoying is the complete lack of consistency in what people have to cut: other reactors get to play the cut bits; some play almost the whole movie, others can hardly play any at all.
"Casablanca" is the most famously quoted movie of all time. In 2005 the AFI (American Film Institute) presented a list of the top 100 quotes from American movies. "Casablanca" had 6 of them. The number 2 and 3 films ("Gone with the Wind" and "The Wizard of Oz" had 3 each. As you will have noticed from watching the film, there are many more than just the 6 memorable lines on their list.
The song battle between the Germans and French is one of THE classic scenes in American film and left audiences cheering the screen during the war. You still got goosebumbs 80 years later!
The ring Laszlo was shown had the Cross of Lorraine, the symbol of the French Resistance, which was also on the papers taken off the dead Frenchman who was shot by the police in the beginning of the film.
Glad you enjoyed it so much. Definitely cinema at its finest. Must thank you because you alluded a couple of times to something I hadn't thought about that is a key part to making this a great movie: that is the pace. It moves, there is no filler, you must pay attention to keep up, and it is so well put together you are drawn in 100%, which is good, because if you weren't it would be hard to not miss important parts that tie the story together. The script writers must get credit for that as well as the director of course. Director Michael Curtiz used great lighting to shape all the scenes, which works even better because it's black and white. Unlike most movies and in particular more recent movies, there's always so much filler, nothing going on that adds to the story. Most 2 hours movies could be condensed in 45 minutes and you wouldn't miss a thing. As a result, you're never fully drawn in, fully invested. Not so in Casablanca. If you're going to watch it, you need to be sure there are no distractions. From that standpoint alone, few movies reach this level of entertainment. How good is the movie: I'll add one other fun fact that gives you an idea. At the beginning of the movie Rick is sitting at a chess board. The board layout, it's characters black and white, the positions on the board, etc., all tie into Rick's character from who he sides with to how his mind works. Just like great literature, everything, every word, every picture has meaning and adds to the story.
My #1 movie--I watch every year. Claude Rains totally stole the movie. The 'sing' down in the cafe always makes me cry. Every actor, large and small role, all excellent. Very adult film as well.
Absolutely the best movie ever for me. Perfect dialogue. Incredible cast. Amazing cinematography. Claude Rains is wonderful, but I wanted Peter Lorre to last longer. He’s so fun in this.
So much of the cast were refugees from the war, including Conrad Veidt, who played Major Strasser. He hated the Nazis (his wife was Jewish, by the way) and only agreed to play the part if they wouldn't try to make his character charming or in any way redeemable. Sadly, he died not too long after the film's release. Since you loved this film, I'd recommend a few other Bogart classics: The Maltese Falcon, also with Peter Lorre and Sydney Greenstreet; The Big Sleep with his wife, Lauren Bacall; and The African Queen with Katherine Hepburn.
The ring shows the Cross of Lorraine, which was the symbol of the Free French during WWII. Berger is indicating to Victor that he is on his side and is working to help all he can.
"I remember every detail. The Germans wore gray, you wore blue." - SO good. There are a handful of movies out there that I would feel absolutely guilty, if not just consider it sacrilegious, to have someone distract themselves by having to 'work' and constantly talk to their audience while experiencing the film for the first time. This is one of them. Wonderful watchalong with you on this one. Thanks!
1 of my 2 Favorite movies of All Time❤ (2nd being Hitchcock's Psycho.) No lie to say have re-watched them at least a hundred times= Amazing! Everyone should see this and am sure those with no patience or knowledge of history will get it" 😂
She was genuine but he said that to him so that he would feel like he was betrayed, Rick's sacrifice is beautiful and worth of a strong man. Casablanca is amazing.
This movie was one of the greatest movies ever made! The funny thing about it was that it was no different than any other put out by that studio. It was based on a play that never saw production titled Everyone Comes to Rick's. The thing is, when the writers, a couple of brothers, they massaged it into the masterpiece that it became! And one of the very interesting things about it was also the cast. Several of the supporting actors were genuine refugees from Europe! There are so many people that are fans of Casablanca, and I'm glad that you've become one too!
Thanks for the company. Enjoyed watching it with you and your astute observations. Anyone who recognizes the brilliance of this film is endeared to me.
Grandson: "Is this a kissing movie?" Grandfather: "Keep your shirt on, let's watch it." Grandson: "Well does it have any sports in it?" Grandfather: "Are you kidding? Soldiers, smugglers, Nazis, pickpockets, refugees, murders, doublecrosses, chases, escapes, heavy drinking, rigged gambling, crooked officials, secret papers, intrigues, plot twists, song battles, gunfights, threesome jokes, true love, miracles, even though the Nazis have outlawed miracles..." Grandson: "Doesn't sound too bad. I'll try and stay awake."
Given the state of cinema production and art of the time, I consider this the best film ever made. Acting, directing, screenplay all brilliant. The most memorable dialogue of any film. Enjoyed your reaction as much as any of the dozens I have watched. Watch it again and again...I'm up to about 20 now and it never disappoints!
What a wonderful reception to this amazing movie. You honed in on it completely. All aspects. 👍👍 See both Paul Henried and Claude Rains in "Now Voyager". With Bette Davis. Def on par with this one. ⭐ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Ring in the movie was a sign of the French Underground/Resistance with a triple cross. I think your review of Casablanca was the best I have seen. You were spot on the major points, it is much more than a love story. They crammed more action, love, intrigue, suspense, character, music and dialog into that short 102 minute movie than I seen in some 3-hour movies. As many critics stated, it could be the best movie ever made. It can never be remade -- there are no more Bogarts, Bergmans, Claude Rains, and Paul Henreid (Victor Laslo).
‘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. 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 the film’s 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. 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, comedic elements together with contemporary, social commentaries. 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. 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 and Rick and Ilsa dance to ‘Perfidia’ which means untrustworthiness. 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. POINTS OF INTEREST AND NOTES FOR SUBSEQUENT VIEWINGS. Rick’s initial selfishness, (I stick my neck out for nobody’), is a metaphor for USA indifference. It must be remembered that the events and politics are hard to comprehend and put into perspective for modem audiences than in the actual time when the film was made. The script is a 'State of the Union' address, both for home and foreign policies. There are references to Civil Rights as embodied in Sam and, of course, the debate about America’s involvement in the conflict. 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 Balkans are mentioned via the Bulgarian couple. 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. There is subtle direction. For example, Ilsa wears black and white clothes and is cast in shadows and in a mirror which portrays the ambiguity of her role. 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 we need to put it in perspective in terms of world events full of Nazi domination. The facial close-ups used throughout the film speak a thousand words: but particularly note Ilsa during ‘La Marseillaise’ when her expressions show her admiration of Victor’s power and her realisation that this must be preserved at all costs. In any case... there is so much alcohol!!!! 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 The Bulgarian couple keep appearing as symbols 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.
The cross that is shown to Laszlo is the Lorraine Cross, a symbol of liberty throughout France and it’s colonies in WW2. When the Nazis invaded France, a good part of southern France which was different culturally and linguistically became a puppet state, while the rest of France became conquered but defiant. This part of France was called Vichy and was lead by General Philippe Petain. Other people in France considered this a betrayal. This is why Louis tosses the bottle of Vichy sparkling water, and in the beginning when the man is shot for running from the police, he dies in front of a poster of Petain. A lot of the extras and side characters in the Cafe were immigrants that fled France before the Germans got there. When they sang Les Marseillaise in defiance of the German anthem, those were real tears in their eyes. Here is what we know about the love triangle as described by the characters in the movie: Ilsa was young when she met Laszlo and he inspired her and she had a feeling she THOUGHT was love. Then she met Rick and truly fell in love with him, and never stopped. But left him when she heard Laszlo was alive, and would need her help. When she went to get the Visas from Rick she told him she was in love with him, and was ALWAYS in love with him. Later even Louis realized that she left with Laszlo but she wanted to be with Rick. It was only by explaining that “being a part of his work and what keeps him going” and that now in the middle of the war that role was more important than love. So she was in love with Rick, but was never in love with Laszlo. During most of the movie Ilsa pretended for Rick’s sake and for Laszlo’s.
Agreed on the whole, except that I think she did genuinely love, admire and care about Laszlo - you can see it in her eyes when she gazes at him during the 'song battle'. She wasn't with him just out of pity or a sense of duty. it's just that she wasn't 'in love' with him with the intensity of romantic/sexual chemistry, the way she was in love with Rick. There are many different kinds of love and those are just two of them... It's interesting that Ingrid Bergman wasn't told during filming which of the two men she would end up choosing or going with ultimately. I'm not sure if even the script-writers knew, since they were writing and rewriting throughout filming. This made Ilsa's ambiguity of intention even more realistic, as she continued to portray feelings for both men without knowing the outcome, just as much in the dark as we as viewers are, watching the story unfold...
I loved your reaction to this movie. I've watched it a million times but it's always fascinating to see a movie lover's first reaction to it. To me this is the greatest movie ever made. You really should dig into the history behind the movie. It's as fascinating as the movie itself and the lore surrounding it is Hollywood legend!!
Just one of many terrific older movies. Try Alfred Hitchcock's "Notorious" (1946), set in the same period and again featuring Ingrid Bergman & Claude Rains, along with Cary Grant. Like "Casablanca", it mixes romance, suspense, and some dark human psychology as well as similar brilliant writing, b&w cinematography, and acting.
I have watched a half-dozen or more reactions and you are the first one that "got it" from the start, with the early action and intrigue and on to the amazing direction/camera use/dialogue/lighting/score. And acting! What makes it so much more is that this movie was just a standard "studio system" this week's crank 'em out! But Casablanca is the magical moment when everything came together perfectly--the right producer matched the right script (an unproduced play called "Everybody Comes to Rick's" with the right director, who selected the right actors, scenic, lighting, costume (gotta say Bergman looks top notch throughout) people. It all coalesced into the best film of the BW era if not of all time!
Fantastic review! I'm glad you appreciated so many of the small details, like the lighting, camera movement, character blocking, and the witty asides. This might be the best-made Hollywood movie of all-time, and it's easily one of my inner circle favorites.
An element of the film, that made it so suspenseful, was the love triangle between Rick, Elsa and Victor. Normally in a Hollywood movie two of the people, the leading man and the woman are obviously meant to end up together. The third character is usually shown with some flaw or attitude that makes them an unsuitable mate. In Casablanca, all three leading characters are shown to be equally heroic and desirable choices. Thus making it more difficult for the audience to decide who ends up flying off together and who is left behind.
I cannot ever watch this movie too much. It’s so fun to see it again through your eyes. Loved your reaction! I am quite certain you will love a Best Picture Oscar winner from 1960- THE APARTMENT, also b/w also directed by another refugee from the Nazis, Billy Wilder.
Rick symbolizes America wanting to stay out of the war but grows to realize he can't stay quiet while the world burns. Americans didnt want to be in the 1st World War and were very reluctant to get into another one The movie was to show Americans you can't sit on the sidelines when the war is a global one. As Rick realizes this, so does America. She genuinely loved Rick even in Casablanca. Rick lied to Lazslo so they could have a happy life together. You'll like this Ingrid Bergman interview. th-cam.com/video/EV-r4I584A8/w-d-xo.html
Born in Trieste, which was then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Henreid was the son of an aristocratic Viennese banker. He studied theatre in Vienna and debuted on the stage under the direction of Max Reinhardt. He began his film career acting in German films in the 1930s, but left Austria in 1935 for Britain. With the start of World War II, Henreid risked deportation or internment as an enemy alien, but Conrad Veidt spoke for him and he was allowed to remain free in England. A small role in Goodbye, Mr. Chips then led him to Hollywood.
This movie is greater than the sum of its parts. It doesn't seem all that much on paper. But so many elements come together so well that it just lands impossibly perfect - lightning captured in a bottle, projected on the silver screen. One element that might not be obvious... a lot of the bit parts were played by accomplished European actors who had fled Nazi Germany's reach. That scene of battling national anthems with a tearful Yvonne fiercely joining in... those tears... they were real. Actress Madeleine Lebeau had fled the Nazis with her husband (also in the movie - himself a noted actor) in a manner that matched the refugee flights described in the opening scene.
Bogart had so many really good movies. "To Have and Have Not", "Key Largo", "The Caine Mutiny", "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" in addition to those three.
Ilsa was ready to stay with Rick and allow Victor to escape to America. Rick told the story to Victor so that she would go and Victor would never doubt her. In their hearts, I think all 3 knew it was an unsolvable love triangle but that it was best for the world, and the future, that some sacrifices were made and who should get on the plane. In those years of wartime, it was not unusual for people to make personal sacrifices for a greater good.
This was my first time watching one of your reactions, and I must say that it is really great to see a reactor enjoy a classic film so much! Would love to see you react to more classics!
If you notice, at the hanger, Chief Renault picks up a bottle of Vichy water. The small city of Vichy was the capital of occupied France. It was chosen because it was small but had many hotels for people who “took the waters”. The Germans controlled all of Metropolitan France. By throwing the bottle in the trash, he was making a political statement as it makes sense that he disappears from Casablanca with Rick.
Casablanca instantly became my favorite movie when I first saw it decades ago. I've seen dozens of amazing movies since then but Casablanca is still the best as far as I'm concerned.
I absolutely loved your reaction to this truly great film. Bogart is still my favorite actor of all time. If you can, see Bogart in The Maltese Falcon. Another classic, with great dialogue, and lots of plot twists. So glad you liked it!
The ring presented at about 8:55 opens to reveal the Cross Of Lorraine which was the symbol of the Free French forces during WWII. The song the Germans sing which initiates the "song battle" is "The Watch on the Rhine". It goes back to the Franco-Prussian War of the 19th century. As a result of that war, Prussia and the remaining states of the Holy Roman Empire united to create the modern country of Germany. They also annexed the French possessions of Alsace and Lorraine.
I had a lot of fun watching you appreciate this movie as much as I do. It sucked to not see some important scenes with you, but like others have written here, I've seen this movie enough times to know pretty much every line.
I have watched casablanca several times over the years and it always feel fresh. It never gets old. The jokes are timeless and the dialogue has become ingrained in most quotable quotes
Decades of discussion in the history of filmmaking of which is the best film ever made, "Citizen Kane" or "Casablanca". IMHO, "Casablanca", hands down. But, ..."Kane" was incredible, too. The music in this film was composed by the greatest film composer of all time, Max Steiner.
Brilliant reaction bro! With your knowledge of production I’m guessing you’re a film maker or studying it. Usually when I watch a reaction from a film maker I find it really annoying, it’s as if the person is trying to impress someone by critiquing the film but they come off as insecure, weak minded and lacking in understanding. Your reaction was just the opposite. Your critique is full of subtle observation and a fine balance of the deeper intricacies going on in the film. I’ve seen this movie at least 30 times and not only did I thoroughly enjoy your reaction but I actually learned something by watching it!
Wow! Thank you! I'm not a filmmaker nor am I studying filmmaking, I just like to pay attention to details in movies. Of course it's really easy to miss things at first watch, but I try to be as attentive as possible.
Ilsa couldn't tell Rick that her husband was then found to be alive because the her husband's life would be in jeopardy. It was critical that the Nazi's think that Lazlo was dead.... She couldn't stay with Rick...
I've always thought that Ilsa and Rick were still in love and Rick only told Lazlo it was over long ago to spare his feelings. It's the romantic in me. 😉
There are so many famous lines, so many truly quotable. I think once you have heard them, you will hear them again and again. "I'm shocked! Shocked!...
It wasn't really popular in Germany when it was released but it was well received in the States and England. A lot of us have seen this movie so many times we could recite the parts you had to cut. Good reaction. Thanks.
When this film was made, the Allies were not doing well-it was before the Normandy invasion and Britain was enduring the Blitz, nations were being taken over, so people were genuinely worried what the outcome of the war might be. It adds to the tension. The scriptwriters increased the tension by not having the ending settled - the cast didn’t know until the last days of shooting whether Ilsa would go or stay and if she would choose Rick or Victor.
All the tunes in here are from the MGM songbook. Beginning in 1927 when talkies were invented MGM began its long term commitment of producing musical reviews. Even dramas had like Casablanca had access to the studio's tunes. That early explosion of sound was immortalized in Singing in the Rain in 1953.
Open to interpretation of course. But I believe Ilsa was genuine in her love for Rick. She could never love Laszlo the same, though she admired him greatly. She said Rick had to do the thinking for both of them. So he did. He put his love aside for the greater good. The scene where he tells Laszlo that she pretended to still love him was a gentlemanly cover. Rick knew she wasn't pretending. And Laszlo did too.
The classic quotes in this movie, as usual with younger viewers, is going WAYYYY over your head. The book was called "Everybody Comes to Rick's", the line used by Captain Renaud when talking with the head jackass, uh, Nazi...Frankly, live been in love with the French Girl, Yvonne, for decades. Played by Marie Madeleine Berthe Lebeau (10 June 1923 - 1 May 2016) was a French film actress who also appeared in American films. Madeline was the last cast member left, when she passed away some 7 years ago. Max Steiner is the genius behind the music. He raised the standard of movie music to an art. I'm actually reading a book on him published 2020. I was a music teacher. He also wrote Gone With the Wind and many others.
Yvonne is an amazing character. She's really only in three scenes or so, and yet her story parallels Rick's. She starts off in love with someone who doesn't love her back. She turns her back on everything and decides just to have fun, going out with the Germans. Then, she has a turning moment and she ends by singing la Marseillaise with tears streaming down her face and shouting, "Vive la France!"
Many of the classic movies from this era are great. there were 6 quotes from this movie. Exceeding expectations, Casablanca went on to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, while Curtiz was selected as Best Director and the Epsteins and Koch were honored for Best Adapted Screenplay. Its reputation has gradually grown, to the point that its lead characters, memorable lines,
Totally agree! Amazing film!! I remember the first time I watched this film, I was so absorbed and invested in it, that the 1 hour 30 minutes running time seemed like 20 minutes! Everyone involved in creating this masterpiece were very present in what they were doing. I love it.
Probably greatest love story ever put on film. How, simple, it's the sacrifices made by all the parties in play. A masterpiece. The film was actually made during WW2. As we say in Texas; y'all be safe.
Lovely reaction! Such fun watching people see it for the first time. Did you know that several of the cast and crew were Hungarian Americans? I'm sure that's why it was such a classy film 😉
Casablanca was shot in 1941 but RELEASED in 1942, AFTER the attack on Pearl Harbor. Michael Curtiz was a refugee from Hungary in the 1930s and hated the Germans. Conrad Veidt, who played the bad guy was rabidly anti nazi and had a hard time playing this part. After Pearl Harbor and America's entrance into the war the movie was VERY well received.
I saw this during WW2 and I believe the reason that it became such an instant classic is that the theme and story truly hit a nerve with the audience members. Everyone identified with the story because in 1942 suddenly husbands and wives, young men and their lovers were being forcefully separated by the war and the draft.
The first time I saw it I enjoyed the Action and Dialog but was too young to really appreiate the Romantic tension. Rewatching it as I grew older, I understood the emotional roller coaster. @@markallendor6237
If either Rick or Louie had ratted out the other one, they both would have gotten arrested. The glance they exchange is like, yeah, I know what has to happen. "Round up the usual suspects." And they both go free.
What is really amazing is that the same time this movie was being released. The Americans were entering the war against Germany, and Casablanca was one of the first places.
Beautiful reaction!!! Please consider classic old movies, I am sure you will love them! I think this is true cinema and Bogart and Bergman are among the best actors ever!
@@shandoratthecinema4098Please see "The Best Years of Out Lives" ❤ Another GREAT movie set just after WW2 about soldiers returning home to same small town. Hope you enjoy it. ALSO = Twelve o'clock High about WW2 pilots and what it took = Amazing!
Another one of my favorite movies, that is much like Casablanca, in that everyone is perfectly casted and every scene work, From Here to Eternity, with Montgomery Clift, Frank Sinatra, Burt Lancaster, Donna Reed, and Deborah Kerr.
"Romantic" comedies with Peter Lorre .. "Arsenic and Old Lace"..and "Comedy of Terrors" .. Casablanca is Still rated the "Greatest War Movie"..According to MovieWeb .. it was fun watching you experience it for the first time!
This or Citizen Kane are considered the best movie of all time. I, of course, think Casablanca is the best - Citizen Kane was ground breaking and perhaps the best directed movie ever but overall Casablanca has it all. It only gets better the more times you watch it.
It's great watching young reactors realizing how great old movies can be. Movies that came after your date of birth aren't the only good movies. 🙂 Fact is, this movie was old when I was born 50+ years ago, and a classic is a classic is a classic.
Have not watched you react to this, but I am looking forward to it. Your reaction to open Range was awesome. I think you’ll love this. Let’s see how it goes.
Fine film...fast paced, complicated plot that is exposed with great skill. 2:45 Senor Ugarte and 4:15 Senor Ferrari were played by Peter Lorre and Sidney Greenstreet, two of the best character actors in movie history.
Rick is the United States, not committing to one side or than other and when Lazlo says now that you are on our side I know we will when is the feeling the Allies had after Pearl Harbor
There are a lot of great old movies, far better than most of todays stuff tbh. I first discovered that in my youth in the 70s when Ted Turner and his Super Station (TBS) bought Warner Brothers and had the rights to all the old movies, so he played them 24/7/365, besides Braves Baseball (LOL) and I was suddenly in love with older movies.
The ring showed to Victor uses the symbol for Free France, (the French underground) and worked against the Vichy government which were the ones who cooperated with the Nazi occupation.
The ring is using the Cross of Lorraine, a part of France that had been exchanged between France and Germany a couple of times in the decades before (Franco-Prussia war, Firts World War). The Alsace-Lorraine region is often mentioned as a region used as a buffer on the border between France and Germany. The cross, from use by the Free French Forces that escaped to other countries after the fall of France in 1940 (splitting France into German-Occupied France and 'Vichy' France), later became the symbol of a Free and united France, that became a fact after Germany and the Axis powers were compelled to return all the French lands they had taken.
Lisa was genuine - the point of the love story is that she does love Rick - but he sacrifices her love for a greater cause - just as she had done in Paris - and cannot do a second time. Unless you understand this you miss their sacrifice. We are not teaching this kind of sacrifice in our culture anymore...
Great reaction! What a classic, right? A few years ago, on the film's 75th anniversary year, CBS Sunday Morning did a nice story on 'Casablanca'. The story did a nice job summarizing what makes the movie such a classic and also placed it in it's historical context. Here's the story: th-cam.com/video/Vv0Eo5-LHhk/w-d-xo.html As you pointed out, the film was made while World War II was still going on. In fact the movie was based on an unproduced play that was written BEFORE the United States had formally entered the War. So, the American bar owner Rick's official position of neutrality in all matters (at least at the beginning of the movie) was a metaphor for the U.S.'s stance on the War.
Ingrid Bergman is a wonderful actress, and so beautiful. She is not wearing a lot of make up, yet she looks more beautiful and so many of todays of celebrities, no plastic surgery ect. Just her natural Swedish beauty, and her acting.
One thing made the plot twist at the end even more surprising to audiences at the time: until this movie came out, Humphrey Bogart was best known for playing villains in cynical Noir films. So a lot of people would have expected him to actually screw over Victor László instead of stepping aside in favor of Ilsa and Victor.
Portugal was neutral during WWII. Many people who wanted to escape Nazi occupied Europe made their way to Casablanca in Morocco which at that time was controlled by the VICHY FRENCH government. From there the emigres/refugees/displaced persons hoped to get to Lisbon and so get away from the horrors of the war. Hence the obsession with "travel papers' throughout the movie. One of the many great lines of dialog in the movie was when the recently reunited ILSA with RICK asked him if he remembered Paris on the day the German Army entered the city. RICK cracks: "Sure, you wore blue and the Germans wore gray"=CLASSIC.
The most important character in this movie (from the geo-political and propaganda intent) was Louie, the police Captain. The last line of the movie is the reason the US military helped fund this movie. Highly recommend the original film noir movie, The Maltese Falcon.
This was so clever and as you noted contemporary to the time and the symbolism reflects this as Rick represents US isolationism which changes. As you appreciate good dialogue and plot it would be cool to see you watch The Sting which is on my list of greatest movies or In The Heat Of The Night.
The singing of La Marseillaise in the cafe gives me goosebumps too! Everytime!
The people in the bar, many of them displaced refugees from across Europe (many of the actors in the film were real life refugees including Madeleine Lebeau who played Yvonne who we see tearfully singing the song), led by Victor Laszlo literally rise to their feet and unite to combat Nazi fascism. It reflects something Laszlo said earlier in the film: "What if you murdered all of us? From every corner of Europe hundreds, thousands, would rise to take our places. Even Nazis can't kill that fast." Also, the words of 'La Marseillaise" itself are particularly poignant (the English translation): "Grab your weapons, citizens! Form your battalions! Let us march! Let us march!"
Andt the scene is a sort of microcosm showing the dynamics between the three main characters Rick, Victor and Ilsa. At first Rick is willing to sit back and allow the Nazis to sing, reflecting his stance to not get involved. But Victor is a man of action and cannot sit by and do nothing. Yet Rick gives the band leader a nod letting him know he approves of them playing the song. Laszlo unites the people and together they stand up to the Germans. Meanwhile, we see Ilsa, who is torn between her feeling for the two men, watching the whole thing and we see in her eyes the love and admiration she has for Victor.
Very well observed!
The only three American-born actors in that entire movie are Humphrey Bogart (Rick), Dooley Wilson (Sam), and Joy Page, who played the young Bulgarian newlywed. Every other person you see onscreen was an immigrant, and most were refugees to America from a war that was still going on. Even the film's director, Michael Curtiz, directed under an Anglicized stage name: his birth name was Kertész Mihály when he was born in Budapest in 1886.
When Laszlo says, "this time, I'm sure our side will win," that was far from certain at the time. The U.S. had not yet entered the war, and when the play was written, it was very much part of a propaganda push to try to get Americans involved. (Turns out it wasn't necessary, as Pearl Harbor was bombed about 11 months before the film version was made). Even so, nobody knew for sure how the war was going to go at that point.
Well said. I think Ilsa's face and her slight panting also shows her fear that Victor will be eventually killed
When Rick says " It's December 1941. I bet people all over America are sleeping" He's talking about the US being neutral and unprepared for war. Rick's "I look out for myself" attitude is also symbolic of an America not wanting to get involved.
With most movies, once you have seen them, you have seen them but with great movies like Casablanca you can watch them over and over again and each time they say more to you than they did the previous time. You can never get tired of watching Casablanca.
The writing/screenplay is phenomenal. A lot of movies today don't have dialogue written this well. There's a reason that despite being over 80 years old, people still love it.
Ilsa is genuine: she loves both Rick and Victor, and they both love her. Rick is smoothing the emotional path for Victor and Ilsa to continue their love: and Victor, who has known from day one of his entrance into Rick's that there was something between Rick and Ilsa, understands what Rick is saying. And note, too, that he leaves the final decision to Ilsa. Note too, that her last words to Rick are "God bless you", which was how she ended her letter to him in Paris.
I think she's in love with the Lazlo as a idea but Rick as a person.
@@Aeolusdallas I think she loves both, but is intimidated by Lazlo (thinking of him as an image of a superman/freedom fighter), and thinking she is not worthy of him. Lazlo knows this and is why he says to Rick "I am also a man and love her" at the bar. So its a triad, Rick man's up and lets her go with Lazlo because he know she love both both of them, but in the long run she will be better/happier with Lazlo then with him.
IMO.
its in the bible somewhere, (I'm an Atheist BTW -lol) - "love is not grasping, but kind/etc"...........its a wise book mostly, some works are wiser than others, but overall it offers good counsel even to Atheists. ;-).
@@gaffo7836I wouldn’t use the word “intimidated” but she has great admiration for Victor. He’s an icon to her that she loves in one way, but loves Rick the way you typically understand a man and a woman being in love. Rick is actually demonstrating more than romantic love by protecting her through his sacrifice and giving her up. She will build a good life with Laszlo but will always have fondness and cherished memories in her heart for Rick.
@@crisjunfan2139 Well said Cris, I couldn't agree more. I hope Shandar reviews more "old' (as in really old - black and white) - movies. there are so many now forgotten films that deserve to be re-remembered/re-discovered. ;-/. Foreign films as well (not many foreign film reactors, none that i know of actually, one or two foreign film reviewers though - not enough either way ;-/. Thanks for reply, peace to you.
@@gaffo7836the New Testament scripture you quoted is from First Corinthians, chapter 13. It is often used as a reading at secular weddings because it does not mention God or Jesus. Worth checking out just as a classic piece of literature.
Sorry you had to cut so much out, but it was no real loss. Many of us know this film SO well, just watching your reaction, we KNEW which scene you were seeing. 😏 I'm surprised how well this film holds up, even 80 years later. No surprise that Casablanca is considered a classic. Thanks for watching. It was great to 'ride along' as you experienced it for the first time.
Oh man, this was such an experience!
Still annoying, but what's really annoying is the complete lack of consistency in what people have to cut: other reactors get to play the cut bits; some play almost the whole movie, others can hardly play any at all.
"Casablanca" is the most famously quoted movie of all time. In 2005 the AFI (American Film Institute) presented a list of the top 100 quotes from American movies. "Casablanca" had 6 of them. The number 2 and 3 films ("Gone with the Wind" and "The Wizard of Oz" had 3 each. As you will have noticed from watching the film, there are many more than just the 6 memorable lines on their list.
The song battle between the Germans and French is one of THE classic scenes in American film and left audiences cheering the screen during the war. You still got goosebumbs 80 years later!
I've lost count of how many times I've seen this movie. Nothing short of brilliant!
Wonderful reactions, Shandor. One relives great experiences when one can observe another engage the same experience for the first time.
The ring Laszlo was shown had the Cross of Lorraine, the symbol of the French Resistance, which was also on the papers taken off the dead Frenchman who was shot by the police in the beginning of the film.
Glad you enjoyed it so much. Definitely cinema at its finest. Must thank you because you alluded a couple of times to something I hadn't thought about that is a key part to making this a great movie: that is the pace. It moves, there is no filler, you must pay attention to keep up, and it is so well put together you are drawn in 100%, which is good, because if you weren't it would be hard to not miss important parts that tie the story together. The script writers must get credit for that as well as the director of course. Director Michael Curtiz used great lighting to shape all the scenes, which works even better because it's black and white.
Unlike most movies and in particular more recent movies, there's always so much filler, nothing going on that adds to the story. Most 2 hours movies could be condensed in 45 minutes and you wouldn't miss a thing. As a result, you're never fully drawn in, fully invested. Not so in Casablanca. If you're going to watch it, you need to be sure there are no distractions. From that standpoint alone, few movies reach this level of entertainment.
How good is the movie: I'll add one other fun fact that gives you an idea. At the beginning of the movie Rick is sitting at a chess board. The board layout, it's characters black and white, the positions on the board, etc., all tie into Rick's character from who he sides with to how his mind works. Just like great literature, everything, every word, every picture has meaning and adds to the story.
My #1 movie--I watch every year. Claude Rains totally stole the movie. The 'sing' down in the cafe always makes me cry. Every actor, large and small role, all excellent. Very adult film as well.
Absolutely the best movie ever for me. Perfect dialogue. Incredible cast. Amazing cinematography. Claude Rains is wonderful, but I wanted Peter Lorre to last longer. He’s so fun in this.
@@brettv5967 So true.
"I like to think that you killed a man, it's the romantic in me." I love that line and delivery.
So much of the cast were refugees from the war, including Conrad Veidt, who played Major Strasser. He hated the Nazis (his wife was Jewish, by the way) and only agreed to play the part if they wouldn't try to make his character charming or in any way redeemable. Sadly, he died not too long after the film's release.
Since you loved this film, I'd recommend a few other Bogart classics: The Maltese Falcon, also with Peter Lorre and Sydney Greenstreet; The Big Sleep with his wife, Lauren Bacall; and The African Queen with Katherine Hepburn.
The African Queen is great !
I LOVE Conrad Veidt!!!
The ring shows the Cross of Lorraine, which was the symbol of the Free French during WWII. Berger is indicating to Victor that he is on his side and is working to help all he can.
"I remember every detail. The Germans wore gray, you wore blue."
- SO good.
There are a handful of movies out there that I would feel absolutely guilty, if not just consider it sacrilegious, to have someone distract themselves by having to 'work' and constantly talk to their audience while experiencing the film for the first time. This is one of them. Wonderful watchalong with you on this one. Thanks!
1 of my 2 Favorite movies of All Time❤
(2nd being Hitchcock's Psycho.)
No lie to say have re-watched them at least a hundred times= Amazing!
Everyone should see this and am sure those with no patience or knowledge of history will get it" 😂
WHAT A LINE. A GREAT ONE among many.
She was genuine,
He was saving her honor....
She was genuine but he said that to him so that he would feel like he was betrayed, Rick's sacrifice is beautiful and worth of a strong man. Casablanca is amazing.
This movie was one of the greatest movies ever made! The funny thing about it was that it was no different than any other put out by that studio. It was based on a play that never saw production titled Everyone Comes to Rick's. The thing is, when the writers, a couple of brothers, they massaged it into the masterpiece that it became! And one of the very interesting things about it was also the cast. Several of the supporting actors were genuine refugees from Europe! There are so many people that are fans of Casablanca, and I'm glad that you've become one too!
Thanks for the company. Enjoyed watching it with you and your astute observations. Anyone who recognizes the brilliance of this film is endeared to me.
So nice to see such appreciation of one of the best films ever made.
Grandson: "Is this a kissing movie?"
Grandfather: "Keep your shirt on, let's watch it."
Grandson: "Well does it have any sports in it?"
Grandfather: "Are you kidding? Soldiers, smugglers, Nazis, pickpockets, refugees, murders, doublecrosses, chases, escapes, heavy drinking, rigged gambling, crooked officials, secret papers, intrigues, plot twists, song battles, gunfights, threesome jokes, true love, miracles, even though the Nazis have outlawed miracles..."
Grandson: "Doesn't sound too bad. I'll try and stay awake."
SHIW SOME RESOECT for your Grandfather - you tiny snot-nose kid! ❤ wink wink
Given the state of cinema production and art of the time, I consider this the best film ever made. Acting, directing, screenplay all brilliant. The most memorable dialogue of any film. Enjoyed your reaction as much as any of the dozens I have watched. Watch it again and again...I'm up to about 20 now and it never disappoints!
What a wonderful reception to this amazing movie. You honed in on it completely. All aspects. 👍👍
See both Paul Henried and Claude Rains in "Now Voyager". With Bette Davis. Def on par with this one.
⭐ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Ring in the movie was a sign of the French Underground/Resistance with a triple cross. I think your review of Casablanca was the best I have seen. You were spot on the major points, it is much more than a love story. They crammed more action, love, intrigue, suspense, character, music and dialog into that short 102 minute movie than I seen in some 3-hour movies. As many critics stated, it could be the best movie ever made. It can never be remade -- there are no more Bogarts, Bergmans, Claude Rains, and Paul Henreid (Victor Laslo).
‘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.
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 the film’s 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.
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, comedic elements together with contemporary, social commentaries. 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.
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 and Rick and Ilsa dance to ‘Perfidia’ which means untrustworthiness.
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.
POINTS OF INTEREST AND NOTES FOR SUBSEQUENT VIEWINGS.
Rick’s initial selfishness, (I stick my neck out for nobody’), is a metaphor for USA indifference. It must be remembered that the events and politics are hard to comprehend and put into perspective for modem audiences than in the actual time when the film was made. The script is a 'State of the Union' address, both for home and foreign policies. There are references to Civil Rights as embodied in Sam and, of course, the debate about America’s involvement in the conflict.
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 Balkans are mentioned via the Bulgarian couple. 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.
There is subtle direction. For example, Ilsa wears black and white clothes and is cast in shadows and in a mirror which portrays the ambiguity of her role.
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 we need to put it in perspective in terms of world events full of Nazi domination.
The facial close-ups used throughout the film speak a thousand words: but particularly note Ilsa during ‘La Marseillaise’ when her expressions show her admiration of Victor’s power and her realisation that this must be preserved at all costs.
In any case... there is so much alcohol!!!!
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
The Bulgarian couple keep appearing as symbols 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.
The cross that is shown to Laszlo is the Lorraine Cross, a symbol of liberty throughout France and it’s colonies in WW2.
When the Nazis invaded France, a good part of southern France which was different culturally and linguistically became a puppet state, while the rest of France became conquered but defiant.
This part of France was called Vichy and was lead by General Philippe Petain. Other people in France considered this a betrayal. This is why Louis tosses the bottle of Vichy sparkling water, and in the beginning when the man is shot for running from the police, he dies in front of a poster of Petain.
A lot of the extras and side characters in the Cafe were immigrants that fled France before the Germans got there. When they sang Les Marseillaise in defiance of the German anthem, those were real tears in their eyes.
Here is what we know about the love triangle as described by the characters in the movie: Ilsa was young when she met Laszlo and he inspired her and she had a feeling she THOUGHT was love.
Then she met Rick and truly fell in love with him, and never stopped. But left him when she heard Laszlo was alive, and would need her help.
When she went to get the Visas from Rick she told him she was in love with him, and was ALWAYS in love with him. Later even Louis realized that she left with Laszlo but she wanted to be with Rick.
It was only by explaining that “being a part of his work and what keeps him going” and that now in the middle of the war that role was more important than love.
So she was in love with Rick, but was never in love with Laszlo. During most of the movie Ilsa pretended for Rick’s sake and for Laszlo’s.
Agreed on the whole, except that I think she did genuinely love, admire and care about Laszlo - you can see it in her eyes when she gazes at him during the 'song battle'. She wasn't with him just out of pity or a sense of duty. it's just that she wasn't 'in love' with him with the intensity of romantic/sexual chemistry, the way she was in love with Rick. There are many different kinds of love and those are just two of them...
It's interesting that Ingrid Bergman wasn't told during filming which of the two men she would end up choosing or going with ultimately. I'm not sure if even the script-writers knew, since they were writing and rewriting throughout filming. This made Ilsa's ambiguity of intention even more realistic, as she continued to portray feelings for both men without knowing the outcome, just as much in the dark as we as viewers are, watching the story unfold...
I loved your reaction to this movie. I've watched it a million times but it's always fascinating to see a movie lover's first reaction to it. To me this is the greatest movie ever made. You really should dig into the history behind the movie. It's as fascinating as the movie itself and the lore surrounding it is Hollywood legend!!
Just one of many terrific older movies. Try Alfred Hitchcock's "Notorious" (1946), set in the same period and again featuring Ingrid Bergman & Claude Rains, along with Cary Grant. Like "Casablanca", it mixes romance, suspense, and some dark human psychology as well as similar brilliant writing, b&w cinematography, and acting.
I have watched a half-dozen or more reactions and you are the first one that "got it" from the start, with the early action and intrigue and on to the amazing direction/camera use/dialogue/lighting/score. And acting! What makes it so much more is that this movie was just a standard "studio system" this week's crank 'em out! But Casablanca is the magical moment when everything came together perfectly--the right producer matched the right script (an unproduced play called "Everybody Comes to Rick's" with the right director, who selected the right actors, scenic, lighting, costume (gotta say Bergman looks top notch throughout) people. It all coalesced into the best film of the BW era if not of all time!
Fantastic review! I'm glad you appreciated so many of the small details, like the lighting, camera movement, character blocking, and the witty asides. This might be the best-made Hollywood movie of all-time, and it's easily one of my inner circle favorites.
An element of the film, that made it so suspenseful, was the love triangle between Rick, Elsa and Victor. Normally in a Hollywood movie two of the people, the leading man and the woman are obviously meant to end up together. The third character is usually shown with some flaw or attitude that makes them an unsuitable mate.
In Casablanca, all three leading characters are shown to be equally heroic and desirable choices. Thus making it more difficult for the audience to decide who ends up flying off together and who is left behind.
I cannot ever watch this movie too much. It’s so fun to see it again through your eyes. Loved your reaction!
I am quite certain you will love a Best Picture Oscar winner from 1960- THE APARTMENT, also b/w also directed by another refugee from the Nazis, Billy Wilder.
Rick symbolizes America wanting to stay out of the war but grows to realize he can't stay quiet while the world burns. Americans didnt want to be in the 1st World War and were very reluctant to get into another one The movie was to show Americans you can't sit on the sidelines when the war is a global one. As Rick realizes this, so does America. She genuinely loved Rick even in Casablanca. Rick lied to Lazslo so they could have a happy life together. You'll like this Ingrid Bergman interview. th-cam.com/video/EV-r4I584A8/w-d-xo.html
Born in Trieste, which was then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Henreid was the son of an aristocratic Viennese banker. He studied theatre in Vienna and debuted on the stage under the direction of Max Reinhardt. He began his film career acting in German films in the 1930s, but left Austria in 1935 for Britain. With the start of World War II, Henreid risked deportation or internment as an enemy alien, but Conrad Veidt spoke for him and he was allowed to remain free in England. A small role in Goodbye, Mr. Chips then led him to Hollywood.
This movie is greater than the sum of its parts. It doesn't seem all that much on paper. But so many elements come together so well that it just lands impossibly perfect - lightning captured in a bottle, projected on the silver screen.
One element that might not be obvious... a lot of the bit parts were played by accomplished European actors who had fled Nazi Germany's reach. That scene of battling national anthems with a tearful Yvonne fiercely joining in... those tears... they were real. Actress Madeleine Lebeau had fled the Nazis with her husband (also in the movie - himself a noted actor) in a manner that matched the refugee flights described in the opening scene.
Yeah, I did some reading and came to learn that her tears were real. It makes the scene all the more powerful.
If you have not seen them, I recommend "The African Queen", "The Big Sleep" and "The Maltese Falcon"... some of Bogart's best work.
“Dark passage”
Bogart had so many really good movies. "To Have and Have Not", "Key Largo", "The Caine Mutiny", "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" in addition to those three.
@@xbubblehead YEP.
Ilsa was ready to stay with Rick and allow Victor to escape to America. Rick told the story to Victor so that she would go and Victor would never doubt her. In their hearts, I think all 3 knew it was an unsolvable love triangle but that it was best for the world, and the future, that some sacrifices were made and who should get on the plane. In those years of wartime, it was not unusual for people to make personal sacrifices for a greater good.
This was my first time watching one of your reactions, and I must say that it is really great to see a reactor enjoy a classic film so much! Would love to see you react to more classics!
I agree! He really knows a great movie when he sees it!
If you notice, at the hanger, Chief Renault picks up a bottle of Vichy water. The small city of Vichy was the capital of occupied France. It was chosen because it was small but had many hotels for people who “took the waters”. The Germans controlled all of Metropolitan France. By throwing the bottle in the trash, he was making a political statement as it makes sense that he disappears from Casablanca with Rick.
Movie won the academy award for best picture.
Rick was sparing Lazslo's feelings by saying Ilsa was only pretending to be in love with Rick. She was not pretending.
You have become one of my favorite reactors. Would love to see more classic movies, they are the best.
Casablanca instantly became my favorite movie when I first saw it decades ago. I've seen dozens of amazing movies since then but Casablanca is still the best as far as I'm concerned.
I absolutely loved your reaction to this truly great film. Bogart is still my favorite actor of all time. If you can, see Bogart in The Maltese Falcon. Another classic, with great dialogue, and lots of plot twists. So glad you liked it!
Just saw that you reacted to Maltese Falcon already! I’ll have to see this reaction next,
The ring presented at about 8:55 opens to reveal the Cross Of Lorraine which was the symbol of the Free French forces during WWII. The song the Germans sing which initiates the "song battle" is "The Watch on the Rhine". It goes back to the Franco-Prussian War of the 19th century. As a result of that war, Prussia and the remaining states of the Holy Roman Empire united to create the modern country of Germany. They also annexed the French possessions of Alsace and Lorraine.
Imagine seeing this in the theater during the war when first released.
This movie is always voted as one of the best movies at all times. It is perfect, everyone casted perfectly, every scene works.
Greatest movie ever made. And your reaction video here is perfect!
I had a lot of fun watching you appreciate this movie as much as I do. It sucked to not see some important scenes with you, but like others have written here, I've seen this movie enough times to know pretty much every line.
A masterpiece. Absolutely.
I have watched casablanca several times over the years and it always feel fresh. It never gets old. The jokes are timeless and the dialogue has become ingrained in most quotable quotes
Decades of discussion in the history of filmmaking of which is the best film ever made, "Citizen Kane" or "Casablanca". IMHO, "Casablanca", hands down. But, ..."Kane" was incredible, too. The music in this film was composed by the greatest film composer of all time, Max Steiner.
Kane was ground-breaking cinematography, but I rank the first two Godfathers ahead of it on the all-time greats list.
Brilliant reaction bro! With your knowledge of production I’m guessing you’re a film maker or studying it. Usually when I watch a reaction from a film maker I find it really annoying, it’s as if the person is trying to impress someone by critiquing the film but they come off as insecure, weak minded and lacking in understanding. Your reaction was just the opposite. Your critique is full of subtle observation and a fine balance of the deeper intricacies going on in the film. I’ve seen this movie at least 30 times and not only did I thoroughly enjoy your reaction but I actually learned something by watching it!
Wow! Thank you! I'm not a filmmaker nor am I studying filmmaking, I just like to pay attention to details in movies. Of course it's really easy to miss things at first watch, but I try to be as attentive as possible.
Of all the reactions I've seen on "Casablanca", you are the first one who gets it. I am impressed.
Ilsa couldn't tell Rick that her husband was then found to be alive because the her husband's life would be in jeopardy. It was critical that the Nazi's think that Lazlo was dead.... She couldn't stay with Rick...
I've always thought that Ilsa and Rick were still in love and Rick only told Lazlo it was over long ago to spare his feelings. It's the romantic in me. 😉
There are so many famous lines, so many truly quotable. I think once you have heard them, you will hear them again and again. "I'm shocked! Shocked!...
It wasn't really popular in Germany when it was released but it was well received in the States and England. A lot of us have seen this movie so many times we could recite the parts you had to cut. Good reaction. Thanks.
When this film was made, the Allies were not doing well-it was before the Normandy invasion and Britain was enduring the Blitz, nations were being taken over, so people were genuinely worried what the outcome of the war might be. It adds to the tension.
The scriptwriters increased the tension by not having the ending settled - the cast didn’t know until the last days of shooting whether Ilsa would go or stay and if she would choose Rick or Victor.
Bogart tells us early on the exact time, the first week of December 1941, when Americans were still asleep. Pearl Harbor was about to happen...
All the tunes in here are from the MGM songbook. Beginning in 1927 when talkies were invented MGM began its long term commitment of producing musical reviews. Even dramas had like Casablanca had access to the studio's tunes. That early explosion of sound was immortalized in Singing in the Rain in 1953.
Open to interpretation of course. But I believe Ilsa was genuine in her love for Rick. She could never love Laszlo the same, though she admired him greatly. She said Rick had to do the thinking for both of them. So he did. He put his love aside for the greater good. The scene where he tells Laszlo that she pretended to still love him was a gentlemanly cover. Rick knew she wasn't pretending. And Laszlo did too.
precisely
The classic quotes in this movie, as usual with younger viewers, is going WAYYYY over your head. The book was called "Everybody Comes to Rick's", the line used by Captain Renaud when talking with the head jackass, uh, Nazi...Frankly, live been in love with the French Girl, Yvonne, for decades. Played by Marie Madeleine Berthe Lebeau (10 June 1923 - 1 May 2016) was a French film actress who also appeared in American films. Madeline was the last cast member left, when she passed away some 7 years ago. Max Steiner is the genius behind the music. He raised the standard of movie music to an art. I'm actually reading a book on him published 2020. I was a music teacher. He also wrote Gone With the Wind and many others.
Yvonne is an amazing character. She's really only in three scenes or so, and yet her story parallels Rick's. She starts off in love with someone who doesn't love her back. She turns her back on everything and decides just to have fun, going out with the Germans. Then, she has a turning moment and she ends by singing la Marseillaise with tears streaming down her face and shouting, "Vive la France!"
Many of the classic movies from this era are great. there were 6 quotes from this movie. Exceeding expectations, Casablanca went on to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, while Curtiz was selected as Best Director and the Epsteins and Koch were honored for Best Adapted Screenplay. Its reputation has gradually grown, to the point that its lead characters, memorable lines,
Totally agree! Amazing film!! I remember the first time I watched this film, I was so absorbed and invested in it, that the 1 hour 30 minutes running time seemed like 20 minutes! Everyone involved in creating this masterpiece were very present in what they were doing. I love it.
It all came together, the story, the actors, the cinematography
There are many hidden treasures among the movies that are old and filmed in black and white. This has been one of them.
A candidate for the best movie ever made and it's over 80 years old. Technology isn't everything.
I feel this is the first of many viewings of this movie for Shandor over the coming years.
I think you're right!
Great reaction! A treasure in itself!
Probably greatest love story ever put on film. How, simple, it's the sacrifices made by all the parties in play. A masterpiece.
The film was actually made during WW2.
As we say in Texas; y'all be safe.
Lovely reaction! Such fun watching people see it for the first time. Did you know that several of the cast and crew were Hungarian Americans? I'm sure that's why it was such a classy film 😉
Yeah, I came to learn later. Pretty cool!
Another Bogart classic was The Maltese Falcon, released in 1941. Classic film-noir. Highly recommended.
Casablanca was shot in 1941 but RELEASED in 1942, AFTER the attack on Pearl Harbor. Michael Curtiz was a refugee from Hungary in the 1930s and hated the Germans. Conrad Veidt, who played the bad guy was rabidly anti nazi and had a hard time playing this part. After Pearl Harbor and America's entrance into the war the movie was VERY well received.
She loved Rick an admired Victor.
She told Rick she loved him when Victor said to her I love you ilsa said yes, I know.
I saw this during WW2 and I believe the reason that it became such an instant classic is that the theme and story truly hit a nerve with the audience members.
Everyone identified with the story because in 1942 suddenly husbands and wives, young men and their lovers were being forcefully separated by the war and the draft.
That is really amazing!. My mom who passed last year at 95 did as well. How old where you when you first saw it? She was 17. Continued longevity.
The first time I saw it I enjoyed the Action and Dialog but was too young to really appreiate the Romantic tension. Rewatching it as I grew older, I understood the emotional roller coaster. @@markallendor6237
I feel when he says here’s looking at you kid it’s his way of saying I love you.
One of the most famous classic movies.
If either Rick or Louie had ratted out the other one, they both would have gotten arrested. The glance they exchange is like, yeah, I know what has to happen. "Round up the usual suspects." And they both go free.
What is really amazing is that the same time this movie was being released. The Americans were entering the war against Germany, and Casablanca was one of the first places.
Beautiful reaction!!! Please consider classic old movies, I am sure you will love them! I think this is true cinema and Bogart and Bergman are among the best actors ever!
I'm definitely considering calssic old movies. I'm open for suggestions!
@@shandoratthecinema4098Please see "The Best Years of Out Lives" ❤
Another GREAT movie set just after WW2 about soldiers returning home to same small town.
Hope you enjoy it.
ALSO = Twelve o'clock High about WW2 pilots and what it took = Amazing!
Another one of my favorite movies, that is much like Casablanca, in that everyone is perfectly casted and every scene work, From Here to Eternity, with Montgomery Clift, Frank Sinatra, Burt Lancaster, Donna Reed, and Deborah Kerr.
"Romantic" comedies with Peter Lorre .. "Arsenic and Old Lace"..and "Comedy of Terrors"
.. Casablanca is Still rated the "Greatest War Movie"..According to MovieWeb .. it was fun watching you experience it for the first time!
This or Citizen Kane are considered the best movie of all time. I, of course, think Casablanca is the best - Citizen Kane was ground breaking and perhaps the best directed movie ever but overall Casablanca has it all. It only gets better the more times you watch it.
It's great watching young reactors realizing how great old movies can be. Movies that came after your date of birth aren't the only good movies. 🙂 Fact is, this movie was old when I was born 50+ years ago, and a classic is a classic is a classic.
Agreed!
Have not watched you react to this, but I am looking forward to it. Your reaction to open Range was awesome. I think you’ll love this. Let’s see how it goes.
Fine film...fast paced, complicated plot that is exposed with great skill. 2:45 Senor Ugarte and 4:15 Senor Ferrari were played by Peter Lorre and Sidney Greenstreet, two of the best character actors in movie history.
Rick is the United States, not committing to one side or than other and when Lazlo says now that you are on our side I know we will when is the feeling the Allies had after Pearl Harbor
There are a lot of great old movies, far better than most of todays stuff tbh. I first discovered that in my youth in the 70s when Ted Turner and his Super Station (TBS) bought Warner Brothers and had the rights to all the old movies, so he played them 24/7/365, besides Braves Baseball (LOL) and I was suddenly in love with older movies.
The ring showed to Victor uses the symbol for Free France, (the French underground) and worked against the Vichy government which were the ones who cooperated with the Nazi occupation.
The ring is using the Cross of Lorraine, a part of France that had been exchanged between France and Germany a couple of times in the decades before (Franco-Prussia war, Firts World War).
The Alsace-Lorraine region is often mentioned as a region used as a buffer on the border between France and Germany.
The cross, from use by the Free French Forces that escaped to other countries after the fall of France in 1940 (splitting France into German-Occupied France and 'Vichy' France), later became the symbol of a Free and united France, that became a fact after Germany and the Axis powers were compelled to return all the French lands they had taken.
Lisa was genuine - the point of the love story is that she does love Rick - but he sacrifices her love for a greater cause - just as she had done in Paris - and cannot do a second time. Unless you understand this you miss their sacrifice. We are not teaching this kind of sacrifice in our culture anymore...
Great reaction! What a classic, right?
A few years ago, on the film's 75th anniversary year, CBS Sunday Morning did a nice story on 'Casablanca'. The story did a nice job summarizing what makes the movie such a classic and also placed it in it's historical context. Here's the story: th-cam.com/video/Vv0Eo5-LHhk/w-d-xo.html
As you pointed out, the film was made while World War II was still going on. In fact the movie was based on an unproduced play that was written BEFORE the United States had formally entered the War. So, the American bar owner Rick's official position of neutrality in all matters (at least at the beginning of the movie) was a metaphor for the U.S.'s stance on the War.
This movie exploded! Perfect timing!
Ingrid Bergman is a wonderful actress, and so beautiful. She is not wearing a lot of make up, yet she looks more beautiful and so many of todays of celebrities, no plastic surgery ect. Just her natural Swedish beauty, and her acting.
One thing made the plot twist at the end even more surprising to audiences at the time: until this movie came out, Humphrey Bogart was best known for playing villains in cynical Noir films. So a lot of people would have expected him to actually screw over Victor László instead of stepping aside in favor of Ilsa and Victor.
This movie is a masterpiece. Love it.
My favourite movie ❤. Thanks so much for this review.
Portugal was neutral during WWII. Many people who wanted to escape Nazi occupied Europe made their way to Casablanca in Morocco which at that time was controlled by the VICHY FRENCH government. From there the emigres/refugees/displaced persons hoped to get to Lisbon and so get away from the horrors of the war. Hence the obsession with "travel papers' throughout the movie.
One of the many great lines of dialog in the movie was when the recently reunited ILSA with RICK asked him if he remembered Paris on the day the German Army entered the city. RICK cracks: "Sure, you wore blue and the Germans wore gray"=CLASSIC.
The most important character in this movie (from the geo-political and propaganda intent) was Louie, the police Captain. The last line of the movie is the reason the US military helped fund this movie.
Highly recommend the original film noir movie, The Maltese Falcon.
This was so clever and as you noted contemporary to the time and the symbolism reflects this as Rick represents US isolationism which changes. As you appreciate good dialogue and plot it would be cool to see you watch The Sting which is on my list of greatest movies or In The Heat Of The Night.
YOu can find my reaction for In The heat of The night on my channel. I loved it! I'll put "The Sting" on my "have to watch" list.
The actress crying during the patriotic song duel was in fact a European refugee. The tears were real.