The Wasteland Reviewer

The Wasteland Collection: Casablanca (1942)

How does a film get the distinction of being in the conversation for the greatest film of all time? Generally, these are timeless themes that are still relatable in 2025, they boast effects that are just unmatched, a level of direction and storytelling that lasts with you, and a wonderfully talented ensemble that brings the story to life. If you can find a story that captures a specific period while being deeply resonant with how the story navigates the rich themes and elements of its setting. Usually, you have some huge stars in the world of cinema who just understand the journey they are saddled with through their character. One such timeless classic is Casablanca.

What is the most impressive aspect of Casablanca? The screenplay from the trio of Philip G. Epstein, Julius J. Epstein, and Howard Koch should be a blueprint on how to balance and execute a story perfectly. You have a story structured so well that it moves well and incorporates reason time to flashbacks (which gives context). The script reveals significant information precisely when it means which is impeccable. There is a sense of mystery in any good drama and Casablanca knows how to strike the perfect balance. There are plenty of smaller yet memorable characters who have their own perspectives, motivations, and add layers to the overall story. Each character gets the perfect amount of screen time for their purpose to the story, and they are so well written and executed that you cannot help but remember them. This is also one of the most quotable films of classic cinema. The biggest achievement in writing is the amount of depth to the context of the World War II setting that this film has. There is plenty to be said about rebellion in the face of fascism and authoritarianism. The one scene featuring the whole bar singing the French anthem captures the film’s deeper meaning which also gives some big emotional impact as well. Casablanca is an entertaining and engrossing film that just so happens to have depth in its messaging along with romance and espionage.

What aspect of this film has become such an influential piece of modern cinematic romance? Casablanca offers up one of the most compelling love triangles in the history of cinema. There is also an impressive thread of a romance that can never be. The dynamic between Rick Blaine, Ilsa Lund, and Victor Laszlo is truly iconic. We meet Rick as a drunkard who has disconnected himself from all people. Through the flashbacks, we see a much different Rick who has love and connection but Ilsa disappearing tore him down and his trust in people. Ilsa is a woman truly in love with two men. A husband who is refined, intelligent, and admirable yet thought to be dead. A lover who is rugged, impassioned, and admirable in his own subtler ways. But when faced with both men, on this fateful journey to the titular city, we have no idea who she will choose (nor does she). Victor is a man of principles and trust and leaves things in the hands of his wife. There is so much emotion wrapped around this love triangle giving Casablanca such impact. What is more iconic than the love triangle itself is the resolution in the film’s final moments… “Here’s looking at you kid”.

But where does Casablanca sit in the great cinematic landscape? This is one of the most iconic films of all time. That is how you get into the “greatest film of all time” discussion. The iconography of this film is second to none. The song “As Time Goes By” has transcended its placement in this film and has become an anthem for early Hollywood. There are so many influential supporting character actors with the likes of Claude Rains, Sydney Greenstreet, and Peter Lorre crafting character archetypes that will go into the future of cinema. There are so many quotable lines in this film that have entered the cultural zeitgeist, even for those who have yet to see the film. The visuals as well as Rick’s tuxedo (and later his trenchcoat attire) have become synonymous with that Old Hollywood prestige and imagery. The ending of this film, right outside of the airplane, has been homage, lampooned, and all but stolen by so many filmmakers since then. Casablanca is a film that has transcended cinema and just lives as a piece of American culture.

Does Casablanca deserve this praise and status? Without a doubt. What Curtiz and company were able to accomplish is downright incredible. The cast is truly iconic with such a talented ensemble. Humphrey Bogart is one of the greatest leading men in the history of film and his turn are Rick is his most iconic. Ingrid Bergman is a representation of immense beauty and class, shining in this role of Ilsa Lund. One of the most engaging and engrossing 105 minutes in all of film, Casablanca is a cinematic touchstone that has stood the test of time for a plethora of reasons and will continue to do so.