Me, Her, the Boy and a Dog

Last night I went to see an all-time classic film on the big screen … Casablanca! The 1942 film is still one of the best movies of all time in my opinion. I went with my friend Ginger who had never seen the film before, which surprised me since she’s a fan of older movies that are considered classics.

I have seen Casablanca, starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, at least three times, but this was my first opportunity to see it on the big screen and it was quite a treat! The actual film reel was old and had the scratches and pops just like you’d expect from an older movie, but it didn’t take away from the experience - rather it added to it.

We were quite impressed with the turnout for such a classic movie and even more impressed with how many younger people turned out. At first we were a little skeptical because they (the young whipper snappers) were a bit boisterous, but once the movie started, they were as quiet as could be.

Watching this film again reminded me how a truly great movie doesn’t need special effects or CGI manipulation. Casablanca won the Oscar for Best Picture that year as well as Best Director and Best Writing. Bogart was nominated for Best Actor in Leading Role for his portrayal of Rick Blaine; and Claude Rains was nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for playing Captain Renault. Bogart was very good, but Rains was superb in his role as Renault.

While the movie is about a very serious topic, there are plenty of one-liners and humorous moments sprinkled throughout the film that got big laughs from the audience at The Lyric in downtown Blacksburg.

It’s not often you have the opportunity to see a classic film that’s 67 years old on the big screen so if you ever get the chance, definitely take advantage of it.