Casablanca (1942) and the politics of war
Casablanca (1942) is on every serious critic's top 25 list, and usually near the top. It is stacked with star power and crisply written and directed. For all its commercial appeal, the film is rich in political commentary.
Questions to consider
How does the film capture the plight of the exile? Use specific characters as examples.
The music from Casablanca is fondly remembered and replicated in any number of films. How does it influence the story? Explain the symbolism.
Describe the relationship between Rick and Captain Renault. How are they alike? Dissimilar? Do both characters evolve during the course of the film?
How are the Germans (Nazis) portrayed?
While ostensibly a classic love story, Casablanca couches this romantic dimension in the larger issue of what it means to be neutral, to sit on the sidelines. This matters in love and war. How does the film demonstrate the impossibility of neutrality in the all-consuming Second World War?
Questions to consider
How does the film capture the plight of the exile? Use specific characters as examples.
The music from Casablanca is fondly remembered and replicated in any number of films. How does it influence the story? Explain the symbolism.
Describe the relationship between Rick and Captain Renault. How are they alike? Dissimilar? Do both characters evolve during the course of the film?
How are the Germans (Nazis) portrayed?
While ostensibly a classic love story, Casablanca couches this romantic dimension in the larger issue of what it means to be neutral, to sit on the sidelines. This matters in love and war. How does the film demonstrate the impossibility of neutrality in the all-consuming Second World War?
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