Casablanca

A re-viewing review of the greatest movie ever made. Why does this film deserve such lofty acclaim? How can it not? Look at the cast. Humphrey Bogart at his greatest--a definitive role that solidified his place among the silver screen's most powerful immortals. Ingrid Bergman, absolutely luminous as the quintessential love interest. Paul Henreid is asked to act next to Bogart, and pulls off the miracle of holding his own. Support comes from major stars like Claude Rains--who steals scene after scene--and Peter Lorre in a brief but legendary performance. And that doesn’t even count all the brilliant supporting character actors who fill out every scene. Not enough for you yet? Look then at the set design: gorgeous in every detail, particularly the interiors of Rick’s. The costume design? Even a slob like me can see the clothing is first rate; everyone looks like a million bucks. On top of all that, add in a story that, on the personal level of the characters, is compelling in its own right...even if you don’t recognize that the tale itself is a genius metaphor for the contemporary geopolitical situation. Added together, it all merges to make the best movie ever, the essential Best of All classic and No 1 on the Top 10 list. Here’s looking at this one, again and again and again, as long as movies are a part of our culture.