Netflix Queue: Casablanca

Casablanca is one of those must-see, timeless classics that are constantly referenced in pop culture, even over six decades since its initial release. To have stood such a rough test of time and still retain widespread appeal (i.e. it's not one of those "cult classics" that people either love or hate) is quite the feat, and after finally watching the movie (three times in a row!), I understood why it was so special.


Movies aren't made like this anymore; most films released nowadays are so kitschy and trashy that they are not worth the $9+ ticket prices at theaters to see. Fred Claus and Alvin and the Chipmunks...seriously??


Romantic and sentimental as it is, Casablanca is not your average "fluffy" and brainless romance flick; the plot really leaves you thinking long after that famous line, "Louis, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship," is uttered by Bogart; Why the sudden change of plan in the end? Why did she get on the plane? Whom does she truly love? That German asshole totally deserved to die.

While some black and white films may be immediately written off as being "too dated" for today's audiences, that aspect of the film actually contributed to the exotic and romantic appeal of the plot; I honestly forgot that there was no color a few minutes into the movie because I was already so drawn into what was happening and the interaction between the characters.

There aren't many movies out there that can withstand multiple viewings without becoming boring and tiresome, but Casablanca just gets better and better every time I hit "Play."