Casablanca: A Date with Fate
A well-crafted romance and political thriller made during wartimeconditions in 1941, and set in the chaos of North West Africa, Casablanca depicts a world that contrasts the glamour of pre-warEurope with the chaotic changes brought by war. The black-market flourishes and displaced people wait endlessly for theopportunity to travel to the free world. The key Nazi andResistance characters represent a divided Europe and the the film advocates the idea that painful sacrifice and going off to war could be romantic gestures done for 'the greater good'.
Outcome Two requires you to evaluate the views and values of a text in terms of the ideas, social conventions and beliefs that the text appears to endorse, challenge or leave unquestioned. What do you think are the views and values represented in Casablanca? Is it a beautiful piece of propaganda?
27 comments:
The range of characters in Casablanca presents the film with a colorful political landscape. As our class discussed, it could almost be a caricature of the different nations taking part in the war. There are representations of the Vichy, the Nazis, Free France, and America. As expected, the film's views are predominantly pro-American and pro-Free France. However, this is old Hollywood; the filmmakers do find ways to voice their political views, but much is about the entertainment. There is plenty of humor peppered throughout the scenes and the stars fill the frames with dazzling beauty.
Once we begin to look at Casablanca more closely, I'm sure that there will be more meaningful elements to be explored, but at the present, I simply think it is a beatifully filmed piece of cinema with plenty of grace and touching romance.
Paul's comment:
The premise in which Casablanca is driven under is definitively an entertaining one, the film is considered to be one of the greatest, if not the greatest films of all time. It's elements are timeless. Although it is very obvious that the filmmakers wanted to voice some political views with their product, the fact that so much interest can be gathered by these "views" and portrayals of certain characters of different backgrounds makes the bias almost transparent. Nazi's vs the free people is not an isolated instance, it is an underdog story, the role of the free french and the resistance fighters is one that evokes great sympathy, and whose victory would most definitely consist of bringing about a happy ending. This is, how I perceive the film as a viewer in the year 2010. During the time of it's release, the roles would not have been so broad, and there definitely would've been a political agenda, what I am trying to say is, that this agenda has been flooded by the waters of Casablanca's success.
I just wrote lots of stuff but deleted it, so I have to try and remember it all back...
As previously mentioned in class, the film certainly uses places a great emphasis in stereotypes, and in my opinion, that is mainly what brings the entire film together. The familiarity of each character really brings about a smooth viewing experience, the cliche made not as apparent by the relatively subtle introduction of such stereotypical characteristics. In m opinion, these stereotypes are what lay the entire foundation of the story, with the conflict and relationship between each character equally cliche, yet pleasing to watch. The views and values presented in the film seem to not be that of the directors, but rather that of the general populace. Each bit of information in the film seems to abide with the 'common sense' that is brought about within us by culture, propaganda etc, thus bringing about a film experience that does not take us out of our comfort zone. I would not see this film as a piece of propaganda, for it does not really try to introduce any new radical thingies, rather choosing to abide to the current set stereotype in our western society. However, such an opinion is probably brought about by the fact that it is now the 21st century and such a film's context is no longer as appropriate. I feel though, that basically it is a cliche film that uses stereotypes to convey notions that run parallel with the audience, yet still being able to be a pleasing experience.
At the present time, my opinion of 'Casablanca' is that it demonstrates the struggle between love and virtue.
It's one of the first movies of our time to truly depict the inner battles of being selfish or noble; especially in a time of chaos and obscurity.
Another key theme of the film is of 'sacrifice.' It was this that resonates with a wartime audience to reassures them that a painful sacrifice and going off to war could be a romantic gesture, done for the greater good.
The obvious stereotypes in Casablanca lay the foundations for it to be seen as a beautiful piece of propaganda. In essence the film is a microcosm of the world at that time, the allies vs. Nazi Germany. Obviously because of these stereotypes the film is riddled with clichés, although this seemed to add to the film’s depth rather than detract from it. The obvious political agenda of the film makers tries to show how the resistance can prevail over the then might of Nazi Germany. The underdog status that is automatically thrust upon Lazlo – another cliché theme in the film – leads the viewer to barrack for him in his quest to bring down the Nazis. The premise of the film is definitely one based around the propaganda-esque notion of the Nazi demise being brought about by the actions of an American helping the resistance on their way to victory. One of the sad truths about the movie is that it’s amazing success most likely overshadowed its message.
To be honest, I really don't have much to say because I've never touched anything in relation to this film, until last week.
It is truly a beautiful (forgive me for going cliche here) film, and it is a classic, no doubt about that.
I must agree with Tina on the account that the film is about a man who expressed his love for a woman by convincing her to leave Casablanca for her own sake and Lazlo's.
Now that I think about it, the arrests, conflict, romance, happens under one roof, Rick's Cafe Americain, which is metaphored scenes at Cafe peak times.
As we study this classic further, we shall have a further understanding of the views values and context. At the time being, I'll leave it at that.
To me, Casablanca, is a classical romantic film. Beverly is right that Rick's cafe is a important focal point of the movie. Everything happens in Rick's cafe: Ugarte's arrest, Rick's reunion with Ilsa Lund, and also where Rick helped Ilsa and Lazlo. Although the cafe is the focal opint of the movie, it is the focal point of Casablanca itself. In Rick's cafe, people of many nationalities gather, and most of them share a purpose, to escape from Casablanca.
I believe that Casablanca is not a romance, as Ilsa and Rick's love affair serves as Rick's sacrifice for a nobler cause, instead of Rick's political agenda being sacrificed for a life of love. The director and screenwriters admit that their focus in Casablanca was the refugees' struggle and the sacrifice in the final scene, and I think that in my personal case I was more politically than romantically stirred in my viewing of the film. However, the film's popular success has turned it into somewhat more of a romance story. I agree with Tina when she says the film is a struggle between love and virtue; Rick's respect for the world or the nations that he feels a connection to outweighs his personal desires, and it is perhaps going against the cinematic, romantic grain of the time that he recognises this.
Casablanca is possibily one of the greatest movies of all times. It is a masterful tale of two men competing for the same woman's love, the political and romantic espionage is set against the backdrop of the wartime conflict between democracy and totalitarianism. The use of a rich and smoky atmosphere sets the mood of the story line. But what i found most interesting and suprising about the film was that it lacks a classic Hollywood ending, in which everyone rides happily into the sunset and comes together. I thought Casablanca ended in a beautiful way because Rick's love was so great that above all else, he wished for Ilsa's happeniness.
The movie, Casablanca, obviously has its historical context rooted in the throngs of World War Two. While you can see themes that bring out support for the allies, in the end though, I stick to my belief that the movie was meant to be for entertainment, and that the propaganda is merely a side-effect, due to the Hollywood background of the film.
The views and values I believe that are presented in Casablanca, are ones promoting that love triumphs over all trials and tribulations, even when personal sacrifices have to be made. (Romance Story).
Casablanca certainly is a classic worth remembering. The film is a brilliant representation of cinema during the 1940's. One might argue that the character development of the films chief antagonists is somewhat lacking, for me this is one of many defining feature that serves to make Casablanca such a great film. The film projects the idea that the good (Allies) will always find a way to triumph over the evil (Germans). I think that the films portrayal of the Germans and Allies is a bit one sided but i would not go as far to say that it is a propaganda film. Support for the anti-Nazi movement is evident but i don't think that the film is centered around this.
I must say, the most intriguing aspect was of the manners of all the characters. They are well contained, unlike of the modern era. For example, Strasser's encounter with Laszlo. Their calm and meaning conversation is from my believe almost non-existent in the modern era. For I believe at this present time, not a single person is able to see an enemy and remain calm and collected and say hello to them in the manner of Strasser and Laszlo.
Even of the comical Renault, words flow like a stream, natural and elegant, but with underlying rocks, waiting to be discovered.
As to whether the film was a propaganda, I believe it is either depending on the person's perspective. If they believe it is propaganda, then it shall be one, if not, then just a classic film. For me, no film will ever be propaganda, as I have not come across one film, that the only aspect I was able to see was propaganda. However I do not believe the film is romance, rather that it was the cut back version of the historical background of its time. The romance is just a tool to lighten the horror of the time, and to attract attention and interest of people. But it is most successful intertwining the aspect into one spectacular film.
In my opinion; Casablanca is one of the greatest propaganda films ever written, subtly spreading its message through romance and humour as well as heroism. It is also a deeply American film – not just as it is a Hollywood production, but because of the values it communicates.
Politically, one of the most climactic moment of the film revolves around the rousing rendition of an anthem – but it is the Marsaillaise, not the Star-Spangled Banner, which humiliates the tone-deaf and ugly Nazi officers who beleaguer Rick's Cafe.
Crucially, the humble choice of another country's anthem is not owed primarily to the film's setting in Free France. Rather, it is one of the many conscious rhetorical devices which make the film so universally appealing and propaganda full. Casablanca's political language does not glorify American courage and valour. It is not militaristic. It is not even triumphalist. Instead, it drives its message home through a humble yet self-assured presentation of the facts; displaying itself as a fantastic piece of propaganda.
Elanor's comment:
The views displayed in Casablanca are understandably anti-Nazi. With the historical context of this film's creation it is expected that the Hollywood it would be pro-French, anti-German. The concepts of isolationism and utilitarianism are explored throughout this film as the protagonist, Rick, transforms from a bitter, cynical isolationist who sticks his "neck out for nobody" to a utilitarian. the catalyst for this transformation, his old flame Ilsa Lund. Upon rekindling and reaffirming their love for each other Rick helps her and her husband escape from Casablanca in order for Victor Lazlo to continue his good work against the war proving that he truly is "a sentimentalist". At the films end Lazlo is off to continue his work and the viewer assumes that Rick, along with Captain Renault are off to do their bit for the war effort. This is a massive turn around for Captain Renault who "blows with the wind" to begin fighting on the side of the underdog and that Rick is returning to his old ways aiding the war effort. An unlikely Hollywood ending.
'Casablanca' depicts the various stereotypes of people of different background. The film is quite anti-Nazi, as the Germans are shown as the group who appose everyone else, as displayed in the scene where they are singing the Nazi anthem at Rick's bar. Everyone else collaborates to sing the French national anthem which results in the Nazis closing down Rick's bar for the night.
This scene conveys the Germans' power over the other nationalities that gather at Rick's.
I actually tried to post this from the library today in my spare, but for some reason it wouldn't post so now I'm trying to remember what i wrote - basically I think Casablanca has some really strong patriotic themes and morals, obviously at the time the war was on everybody's mind and so it was logical and probably very profitable to make a film about it. Since it was american, the film is biased towards the allies - the Germans are portrayed as villains. It is definitely propaganda, but i think the fact that the film was such a success and later considered a classic, kind of stifles the political messages behind it. The themes it contains are nothing next to the love story which the film centers on, and given that it was a Hollywood drama/romance it would probably have been viewed at the time by women mainly, women looking only for the romantic aspects. The war, to those not analysing the film as we are, was probably just the setting of the film; at the time it was released there was nothing unusual in American films having biased views towards Nazis.
I felt that the views of Casablanca were reasonably well-crafted to suggest that Rick's (and by extension America's) actions are noble, perhaps a shade heroic, for example, when he helps the struggling Bulgarian couple by rigging the roulette wheel.
The Germans are portrayed as enemies, unfairly closing down the bar after the French national anthem is played, with Strasser not caring about whether his actions are justifiable - he tells Renault to find a reason to close the bar.
I do find Renault's character interesting - he doesn't want any trouble, and attempts to please Strasser, yet, he doesn't give a definite answer to Rick's question about whether he supports Vichy or Free France, perhaps showing he is not entirely loyal to the Germans.
As a piece of propaganda, I do appreciate the ways in which the viewer is encouraged to stereotype the characters, however, I'm not sure if I could call it 'beautiful propaganda.' I suppose that if we all end up feeling rather emotional about the issues being shown in the film, I might credit it with being beautiful, but, at the moment, I don't really feel that strongly about the issues here.
To me, Casablanca is one of the finest ways propaganda can ever be presented as. Instead of blatantly confronting people with a country at war, director Michael Curtiz has chosen to intertwine the power of visual communication together with the appreciation of democracy in the political world. Casablanca itself is filmed to focus on the romance between Rick Blaine and Ilsa Lund; the complications of love and sentimentalism. However, Curtiz has also cleverly filmed Casablanca to be transparent enough for viewers to clearly see the suffering of the people under the power of the Nazis.
The film represents evidently the values of exercising freedom within society. Patriotism is a recurring theme throughout the film as viewers are exposed to different characters’ stance in the political world; whether the Germans or the French. Curtiz uses characters like Renault who “blows with the wind” to contrast with Victor Laszlo who is consistent in his side of the fight. The main character, Rick however, is portrayed initially as a mediocre individual who “sticks his neck out for nobody”. He is neither for nor against the tyrannic Nazis and is shown to be very egocentric and cold-hearted to others; depicting a belief in isolationism.
When first introduced, Casablanca seemed to be a very jovial and comfortable place; but as Curtiz exposes more of the place to viewers, we see that this place is not half as simple as it is meant to be. When one thinks of politics, their first thought would be the presence of corruption within the community. Curtiz reflects upon that thought of corruption and implements it into the lifestyle of Casablanca where everyone is fighting to get out of there.
In the end, Curtiz ties all ends together with Rick exposing his true belief of utilitarianism; and as a response- ignoring his relationship with Ilsa (his sentimental side).
Rosie's comment:
So basically anything i wanted to say in answer to the question has already been said.
The views and values portrayed throughout Casablanca obviously promote patriotism and sacrifice. It's considered a classic for a reason, and agreeing with what Tina said, it does show the battle between being selfish or noble, making it interesting to watch.
Also, i agree with Jono, i don't think the film is propaganda because i don't believe it's intention was to try gain support for the anti-nazi movement, as at this point in time there had already been so many other propaganda films, and so it cannot be compared.
Bri’s comment:
'Casablanca' is indeed a beautiful piece of propaganda. On the surface it is a love story but it has anti-Nazi ideas hidden and woven throughout the film.
The wartime audience who would have initially received the film would have been captivated by the romantic way in which joining the war is portrayed. Also, they would have appreciated the sacrifice that’s displayed, they would have liked that Rick makes a sacrifice for the greater good.
Given who won WWII, it’s not surprising that the film is still popular. Although the war was many decades ago, people still feel ill towards Nazism so the film’s strong anti-Nazi stance resonates with people today. If the Germans had won the war, the film would not have the impact it has today. This is one of the main reasons why the film is a classic, as well as propaganda.
The views presented within Casablanca are rather non-descript, a simple summation of a sort of hollywood romance that has endeared the world for a good 65 years in the running.
Yes, there are villainous axis force, and the glorious men of the allied forces. Yet, there's something cheapened about it when one considers exactly how unlikeable a character the crux of the allied position is... Does anybody truly like Victor Laszlo? He stands out as a faintly heroic character, but doesn't seem to much in the way of on-screen heroics.
This is not true propaganda, even if it does have anti-nazi leanings contained throughout, for the Hun was merely a narrative device at that point, and truly they're not depicted as the great savage beasts that one would see spread through the rest of American war-supporting media.
Personally, I don’t think ‘Casablanca’ is a form of propaganda. Although it could be easily misinterpreted as a well produced, well disguised attempt to persuade the audience away from the Nazis, I believe that this was in fact not the intention of the writer and director. I think that this was simply the setting and cultural background chosen as the foundations under the story of a man who makes a sacrifice to ultimately save the one he loves and keep her happy. The film values freedom, love and sacrifice in high regard, and I think it is these themes that are being conveyed by the makers of the film.
The film is not promoting anti-Nazi ideals, it is simply set in a time where this was a frequent occurrence.
The views and values of America’s position in World War II are brilliantly represented in Casablanca, which in turn makes it a beautiful piece of propaganda; for the simplicity of the plot around the characters of different nationalities in Casablanca lessens the obscurity of the current situation of that time where America had still not entered the war.
At the beginning of the film the audience is immediately introduced to the political situation where a Frenchman is shot dead in Casablanca, supposedly where the Free French are occupied.
However the next scene where Captain Renault meets General Strasser clearly shows that the Vichy French are bending to the will of the Germans. For Renault is very polite and obliging to Strasser while ignoring the Italian leader.
Later on the audience is then introduced to Rick, an American who is told by Signor Ferrari that ‘in this world today isolationism is no longer a practical policy.’ This is further emphasized by the fact that America was forced to enter the war after Pearl Harbour was bombed. America realized that they could no long remain neutral and as a result finally entered World War II.
By the end of the film, Rick must choose between his leaving Casablanca with his true love Ilsa or to allow Ilsa to leave with her husband Lazslo, who is fighting against the Nazis. He must make the difficult choice between his true love and assisting the French Resistance in fighting against the Nazis. In short, Rick can no longer remain isolated from the current political situation and must make a significant decision, which interestingly is a decision that America was forced to make in 1941.
This decision was a crucial point in the propaganda presented by this film. The Nazis are viewed as the enemy, which is shown through the character of General Strasser. He conveniently deposes of any enemies to the Nazi, for example Ugarte dies after he is arrested under questionable circumstances. This creates a negative view towards the Nazis. The resolution of the film conveys a feeling of relief (with a tinge of regret) when Rick decides to let Ilsa leave without him,thus allowing Lazslo to continue his work as the French Resistance against the Nazis. This further promotes (publicly) the role America partook in the war by assisting the French in defeating the Nazis.
This piece of propaganda was beautified by the love between Ilsa and Rick, thus allowing the audience to understand what the political situation the world was in during World War II.
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