I watched Casablanca today. I am at a loss of words to describe this movie. I have read quite a bit about World War II, the brutality of concentration camps, and the brutality of the war itself. But I have never thought deeply about the harsh reality of that war. I read that millions were killed, but that was just a number to me.
But seeing in a visual medium, in black and white, is striking. The movie itself is so easy on the eye. It has no gruesome visual of war. Nevertheless, it subtly stokes one’s sensibilities. I was amazed by that. What is also amazing is, why are we humans yet to learn the lessons of World War II. The United Nations charter started with the goal “to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which twice in our lifetime has brought untold sorrow to mankind.” Yet, to this day, millions are being ravaged because of war.
The war however is only incidental to the story. The story is about the conflict between love and virtue. This is the most powerful portrayal of love and romance I have ever seen. It is not the type that makes you cry, but it leaves you overwhelmed. Each exchange between the lovers is searing. This is a gripping love story with an every better screenplay.
I have not been this moved by a movie in a long time. If you have not seen it, you should.
