Straight Up Gangsta!

Rating: Null/10 (28 May 2004)

Favored among many movie enthusiasts, Casablanca is a well-made American classic. The film gives the audience a taste of the atmosphere that existed in Casablanca, Morocco during the Nazi regime of WWII. In the film, Casablanca is the destination for anyone who didn't want to be found. For the criminals, escapees and the refugees fleeing from Nazi oppression, Casablanca was not only a safe haven, but also a gateway to a Hitler-free world.
There in Casablanca, exists a popular nightclub called Rick's, where most of these stowaways end up as they wait for their ticket out of the country. It's a trendy gin joint with gambling, music and drinking that ironically reflects the atmosphere of the country or 'safe haven' Rick originates from, America, 'The Land of The Free'. At Rick's, the only 'American' nightclub in Casablanca, people from all backgrounds and cultures are welcome to relax and hang out without being persecuted, prosecuted or detained. It retains the party atmosphere and indulges in the carefree lifestyle that America commonly depicts. But beneath it all, lies the underground network of allies made up of intrigue, meticulous scheming and corrupt officials. In the middle of this soup of deceptiveness and illegality is Rick, standing neutral and bold.
Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart) is a man who stands alone and looks out for no one but himself. By holding onto that pitiless tough-guy persona he reveals to the crowd, he's able to hide emotion and stray away from heartache, which as the film progresses, takes the focus away from the romance and the Nazis and places it on Rick's struggle to redefine himself. Bogart's brilliant characterization harmonizes beautifully with the performance of the stunning Ingrid Bergman, who plays Rick's old flame Ilsa 'Kid' Laslo. Together this romantic duo set the screen on fire as the sexual tension mounts between them.
Technically speaking, the film didn't use any groundbreaking techniques with the lighting, camera work, or sound. For this film in particular, simple was good. No special effects, innovative camera movements or directing methods generated an uncomplicated love story that the audience could easily focus on.
With quotable quotes and original an story line, there is no wonder why this film is a favorite to many. It's perfect for anyone who adores a good love story. Certainly not one of the greatest films ever made, it is however, one of the most influential films ever made, which justifies its status as an American classic.