From it’s incomplete script, to disagreements in the music department, “Casablanca” seemed doomed, but with its stellar cast of characters to its clever dialogue, its why the film is so frequently labeled one of the finest on-screen romances, as well as a frequent representative of top Hollywood cinema. Set in Casablanca, Morocco during the German occupation of World War II, French anarchist Victor Lazlo (Paul Henreid) and his wife (Ingrid Bergman) attempt to flee to America to continue fighting for his cause, only to be held up in the city. Their only hope is to persuade cynical café owner Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart) to provide them with official letters of transit; however, former memories stand in their way.

When the film was in pre-production, studio heads had asked producer Hal B. Wallis on his opinions of casting George Raft, an actor known for his portrayals of Hollywood gangsters in the 1930s, the role of Rick Blaine. Wallis, however was skeptical and suggested casting a rising star under a Warner Brothers contract- Humphrey Bogart. When his 1941 noir film, “The Maltese Falcon” was released to critical praise, it had cemented Bogart’s status as a leading man in Hollywood, and more importantly, won him the role.

“I stick my neck out for nobody” is a phrase often heard from Rick, a cold man outside, but as displayed later in the movie (and correctly predicted by Claude Rains’ character) he turns to have a heart of gold, despite his tough outer shell. Written to a memorable fashion, spouting famous catchphrases (“Here’s looking at you kid”, “Play it again, Sam”), which have been embraced by the American Film Institute, by including six of it’s quotes on their list of cinema’s greatest film quotes.

The film today stands the test of time, especially with relevant themes of dignity, immigration, and love. Last month, over 500 of the usual suspects flocked to the sunny state of Florida to socialize and celebrate the 75^th Anniversary of the beloved classic. The festival was hosted by son of Bogart and frequent co-star Lauren Bacall, Stephen Bogart.   I had the extreme privilege to witness with a live interview with three the children of this movie’s beloved cast, including Stephen.

“My father, of course, died when he was very young, but he made a lot of movies that have stood the test of time.” stated Bogart in the interview.  Stephen was right, with several acclaimed and classic films to his filmography, in the short time he lived. Despite passing away at age 57, “The Maltese Falcon”, “The Treasure of The Sierra Madre”, and “The African Queen” are staples of classic cinema, but no film stands taller than Michael Curtiz’s tale of fighting for freedom, love, and what’s right in the world- the type of film we need today.