We'll Always Have Casablanca

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Released in 1942, shortly after Casablanca surrendered to American troops, this film features a masterful screenplay, iconic soundtrack, and unforgettable performances by Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. Hailed by the New York Times as “a picture that makes the spine tingle and the heart take a leap,” it won Oscars for best picture, director, and screenplay, enjoying more revival screenings than any other film in history. It has become a cultural touchstone, with Umberto Eco noting that it represents “not one movie; it is ‘movies.’” In this rich account, celebrated film historian Noah Isenberg delves into the origins of this beloved classic. Through extensive research and interviews with filmmakers, critics, and cast family members, he uncovers the myths and realities behind its production. Isenberg explores the transformation from an unproduced stage play to the classic screenplay, controversial casting decisions, and the challenges with Production Code censors, as well as the impact of the war on the film's reception. He emphasizes the vital role of refugees from Hitler’s Europe, as nearly all cast members were immigrants. Filled with fresh insights, this account reveals what made the film so popular and why it continues to captivate audiences seventy-five years later.