Everybody Comes to Rick’s

By Dean Schuster, leader of the December 14th film discussion of CASABLANCA.

You’re about to see CASABLANCA, likely for the first time, and I am jealous. CASABLANCA is a film that, for me, endures despite repeated viewings. I unapologetically love this film. Something in me wishes I could experience it again for the first time. And so I am jealous of you.

This film was made in 1942, in the very early stages of World War II when Allied victory was not yet certain. It’s black and white, and it consists primarily of dialogue centered on a simple plot. This may not seem like a recipe for a film you’ll love. But I beg to differ. If you have a pulse, you’ll find something to appreciate about it, possibly even to treasure. I dare you to hate it.

When you watch the film, listen closely for the dialogue, follow the characters closely, and pay attention to what the film is saying. We’ll start our discussion with a simple question: “What kind of film is this?”