Oldies but goodies

Oldies but goodies

 

                                                                                           By Lee Hyon-soo

 

Old classic movies are referred to as oldies but goodies. I am passionately fond of such movies that have transcended time with the undoubtable quality of acclaimed cinematic work.

 

Old classic movies explore timeless themes such as love, human nature, morality and social issues that are still relevant today. Despite being made long ago, they can resonate with modern audiences, offering insights into the human condition and providing thought-provoking narratives that are still relatable and emotionally impactful.

 

Old classic movies can offer glimpses into different cultures, lifestyles and societal norms of the past, providing a window into the history and diversity of human experiences. Watching them can broaden one’s perspective and foster an appreciation for different times, cultures and perspectives, promoting empathy and understanding.

 

Old classic movies are part of the rich tapestry of film history and watching them allows viewers to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of classic cinema. It can be fascinating to see how films have changed in terms of technology, aesthetics and storytelling techniques over the years and how they have shaped contemporary cinema.

 

A fan of old classic movies, I have watched most of the movies which are on the American Film Institute’s list of the 100 best American movies of all time.

 

That said, I would like to touch on one of the old classic movies that left a lasting impression on me. That movie is “Casablanca” which ranks 3rd on the AFI’s list after “Citizen Kane” and “The Godfather.” It is a romantic drama film released in 1942, starring Humphrey Bogart as Rick Blaine and Ingrid Bergman as Ilsa Lund. The story is set in Casablanca, Morocco during World War II, where refugees fleeing from Nazi-occupied Europe gather in the hopes of obtaining exit visas to escape to America. Rick Blaine is the owner of Rick’s Café, a popular nightclub in Casablanca.

 

The film revolves around the complicated love triangle between Rick, Ilsa and Victor Laszlo (played by Paul Henreid), a renowned fugitive Czechoslovak Resistance leader. Rick and Ilsa had a passionate romance in Paris, but Ilsa left him suddenly without any explanation, breaking his heart. When Ilsa unexpectedly reappears in Casablanca with her husband Victor, seeking Rick’s help to obtain exit visas, Rick is torn between his love for Ilsa and his desire to remain neutral in the war.

 

As the story unfolds, Rick becomes embroiled in a web of intrigue and deception involving the Nazis, the French Resistance and Captain Louis Renault, the abashedly corrupt prefect of police. He must navigate his complicated emotions for Ilsa, his strained relationship with Victor, and the danger posed by the Nazis, who are determined to capture Victor.

 

Rick ultimately makes a selfless decision that puts honor and sacrifice above his own desires. The film ends with Rick and Ilsa bidding each other farewell at the airport, as Ilsa and Victor board a plane to escape to America via Portugal, leaving Rick behind with a sense of redemption and renewed purpose.

 

Casablanca is known for its memorable performances, captivating story, and its themes of love, sacrifice, and the human spirit amidst the chaos of war. It has become a beloved classic that continues to captivate audiences and is often regarded as one of the greatest films in cinematic history.