Almost Poetry. Review on Casablanca

Almost poetry, is how I would like to describe Casablanca.

Set against the backdrop of espionage in wartime French Morocco, the story of American Café owner Rick (Humphrey Bogart) and his unwitting re-union with his old flame (Ingrid Bergman) unfolds.

Though its production was rushed and everything was improvised yet nothing could have gone more perfect. It had everything that a film requires to achieve cult status of all time, witty dialogues, sensational actors, breath-taking cinematography and flawless direction. There remains a comedic mark on the classic, yet deep down the film focuses on love. Some scenes are intensely emotional; patriotic spirits soar. No other movie set in World War two has a longer lasting impression of the war’s importance than the anti-nazi drama Casablanca.

The script was a spontaneous improvisation by the Epstein Brothers (No relation of the Beatles’ manager, Brian!). Adapted from the play “Everyone Eats at Rick’s”, the duo wrote almost living the characters themselves. What emerged from this collaboration was a taut script, with crisp dialogues and full of cynical humour that carefully lightened a dreary mood without altering the seriousness that a particular situation demanded.

The film would have been another run-off-the-mill movie (complete with Anti-Nazi inferences) if it weren’t for the great cast that it had. Humphrey Bogart (Rick Blaine) is simply exceptional. His charm, wit, personality, vulnerability were portrayed perfectly on screen. His dialogue delivery was the best I have ever come across in contemporary cinema and is what I believe a notable highlight of his career. (Interestingly enough Ronald Reagan was originally supposed to be cast in the role)

Ingrid Bergman (Ilsa Laszlo) is stunning. Innocence personified she manages to look exceptionally beautiful and confused at the same time. (This could possibly be due to her never knowing the film’s ending until it was actually shot, but whatever reason, it is exemplary)

My favorite scene takes place late at night at Rick's bar. Bogart drinks and smokes alone. Bogart's expression is one of doom. Then the door opens. Bergman appears, as if in a dream, bathed in light. It's a fine example of 40's atmospheric film-making.

Some exceptional cameos were performed by Sydney Greenstreet (Senor Ferarri) and Peter Lorre (Ugarte), without which the film might have even looked flat. Exceptional supporting actors do make a film exceptional (e.g. in “Rosemary’s Baby”). Paul Henreid is mind-blowing. Dooley Wilson (Sam) couldn’t have got a better movie in his career than in Casablanca, with the enchanting scene of the pianist and a long time friend of Rick Blaine.

(Interestingly, the famous non-quote “Play it again, Sam” was

generated by this film. Actually what was said was “If you played it for her you can play it for me! Play It Sam. Play ‘As Time Goes By’”)

This ‘magnum opus’ can be viewed time and time again. It is suitable for viewers of all ages and can be enjoyed with the family. There is a superb blend of comedy, suspense, espionage and romance, which is a unique and lethal combination that makes a film truly exceptional. Excellent cinematography and flawless direction make this film a visual treat.

Michael Curtiz (Director) gives us a truly wonderful gift which all of us shall cherish forever.