Nothing remains to be said

Rating: 10/10 (13 December 2014)

What can anyone say about Casablanca that hasn't already been said? It is one of the most prolific, successful, and critically lauded films in American history. It's also one of my personal favourite films. From start to finish, the dialogue is endlessly quotable without becoming obnoxious, and it maintains a keen wit that is unforgettably punched into film canon with Humphrey Bogart's legendary delivery. Bergman is angelically filmed in each scene with extreme attention paid to framing and lighting, and she flawlessly portrays a woman tortured by her situation. The special attention to the lighting, the bustling Rick's café, the unique period of American neutrality before involvement in WWII... The list of things I love about this movie goes on and on. Few films are more deserving of a perfect score than Casablanca.