We'll Always Have Paris

Casablanca is, without a doubt a great story. While it isn't necessarily –in my opinion at least—one of the most cinematographically impressive films, its role as an archetype of an Old Hollywood love story certainly earns the film its place as one of the greatest movies of all time. Also, Casablanca’s criticism of Vichy-control sets it apart from other films. However, whenever I watch Casablanca, I cannot help but wonder if I would have liked the film had I been around to see it in 1942. I am inclined to believe that half the reason I like Casablanca as much as I do is for its somewhat cheesy romantic qualities.

As a love story, Casablanca definitely follows the form of the other love stories of its time. I think this is what secured the film’s initial popularity but the love story really only serves as the premise for a larger story than the lives of the characters themselves. As Rick says, “I'm no good at being noble, but it doesn't take much to see that the problems of three little people don't amount to a hill of beans in this crazy world.” The depth of the plot, I believe, explains what distinguishes Casablanca from all those other love stories.

Of course it is impossible to talk about the romantic qualities of Casablanca without bringing up Humphrey Bogart. Admittedly, I find him charming and romantic but I’m more swept off my feet by how endearingly cheesy his lines are. But supposedly those lines made women’s hearts skip a beat back in the 40s. It’s important to note, however, that Casablanca may be a little bit dramatic and cheesy now but it was not always so. This may people why we still recognize it as one of the greatest American films ever made.

Another aspect of Casablanca that I like it simply that it is in black and white. In fact, I would never want to watch it “digitally re-mastered in full color” because I think it would take away from the nostalgic feel of the story. However, it is unlikely that you would nostalgic about a film that takes place in the present. Also, for those that saw Casablanca in 1942, watching black and white films was not a novel experience.

Again, Casablanca is an excellent film because it captures the essence of Old Hollywood loves stories and yet its dynamic plot distinguishes it from other films of its time.