Critical film analysis and interpretation methods

Film Criticism of Casablanca

Casablanca, one of the most famous films of the last one hundred years, uses various film and music techniques to convey the story of Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman's tragic love triangle set in World War II's North Africa. The film connects on many human levels due to its use of seamless shots including close-ups, deep focus and dissolves to name a few. The technique of mis en scene, which literally means use of stylistic items such as scenery, lighting and costumes also artistically builds the drama. The use of music also plays a huge role in setting the scene for romance in the film. It, too, can be considered a character, after all no one can forget the line "Play it again, Sam." The following paragraphs takes an in depth look at such examples in the film.

Film Criticism

Montage and overlapping of scenes opens the movie dramatically while a voice over brings the viewer an update as to the tragic events of war. The voice over quickly cuts away to action creating suspense and captivating the viewer. The background music is also cut dramatically to follow this scene. The outside action is edited in short cuts to emphasize the drama. In contrast when inside Rick's Place, the shots are longer and in deep focus to create an attachment to the characters and their unique situation. Once the Humphrey Bogart character realizes that the Ingrid Bergman character has returned to Casablanca, his reaction of sadness and regret is painted in darkness. In contrast, the next scene as a flashback of his memories of being in love in Paris, are a quick montage of dramatically lit cuts.

The use of mis en scene as technique is apparent in almost every scene. It is clear that the art producer used careful consideration in painting the atmosphere of Northern Africa. The contrast of light and shadow throughout the scenes played at Rick's Place builds an air of mysteriousness and only heightens the drama of the romance and knowledge of war. In some ways, Rick's Place is a haven for the characters of the film. Within the nightclub's walls, there is entertainment and a gaiety that cannot be found outside. There is also a sense of comfort as the undertones of romance come through because of the elements of music and conversation. The use of costumes is vibrant and rich enhancing the romance of the film. Costumes also help establish the time period and create symbolism for the film's characters. Notice that Humphrey Bogart is always dressed in light colors or white and this establishes him as the hero of the film. In fact most of the European or Western characters, including Ingrid Bergman's white glittering gown, are dressed in light colors while the enemy's costumes are dark or military uniforms. This creates an interesting contrast of social status within the film culture.