For the Corrupt Poor

Rating: 8/10 (9 April 2015)

What a cast of characters, if you are familiar with the careers of the major and minor leads, this is old school film buff heaven! I treasure a delicious intrigue and Casablanca delivers on all fronts. There is the foreign affairs effect, tense drama, fear filled moments, historical references, comedy, music, and a conflicted romance. For 1942 or thereabouts, not much competition imho.
My major issue lies with the semblance of a decision for Ilsa regarding leaving her husband. Who could ever find this a plausible plot given she is already married, in love with the cause, comprehends her role in it, and deeply admires him since childhood. I did not find anything believable in a suspense ending given the aforementioned elements, but only the possible Nazi confrontation before the plane departure.
The unexpected one liners were truly hilarious amidst the tense drama of escapes, persecution and liberation. The many representations of foreigners aligned as allies was inspiring, to wit the German vs French hit parade performance. I had not heard "La Marseillaise" since High School and was impressed I was able to recall so many lines.
Although many consider this a propaganda film, it accomplishes this with subtlety. The drop of the Vichy water bottle in the trash bin hints at the power of many countries aligned to defeat the Axis.
High recommend for foreign war POV, star performances, life in French Morocco, and a black and white blue parrot.