One interesting way that movies touch our lives is when dialogue becomes part of our lexicon. How many times have you been at a party only to witness a group of guys repeat every line from flicks like “The Godfather” or “Scarface“? We get it. “Say hello to my ‘lil’ friend” is a nice double-entendre. Another often quoted movie is the romantic-drama “Casablanca”. This 1942 classic stars the dashing Humphrey Bogart and delicious Ingrid Bergman in a love story set against the back-drop of Nazi oppression. Take a look at some of these biting barbs and sweet serenades uttered by the main cast members in the film.

Human Rights and Slavery

“Casablanca” makes no apologies for bringing the topic of race relations right to the forefront. Aside from the Nazi ire toward Jewish people, “Casablanca” dives into a conversation about race in the middle of Rick’s American Cafe. When speaking about Sam, the African-American piano player in the club, and Rick’s only friend who’s not trying to bankrupt him or kill him, Signor Ferrari inquires “What do you want for Sam?” Rick responds “I don’t buy or sell human beings.” Signor Ferrari shrugs, “Too bad. That’s Casablanca’s leading commodity.”

Nazi Rule

The release of “Casablanca” was actually moved up to coincide with the American war effort. Therefore, it was imperative that the film not only support the American cause, but demonstrate strength against a potential Nazi rule. Remember, at the time, nobody was sure how the war would turn out.

The German Major Heinrich Strasser inquires, “Are you one of those people who cannot imagine the Germans in their beloved Paris?” Rick shrugs “It’s not particularly my beloved Paris.” Another German, Col. Heinz pushes further “Can you imagine us in London?” Rick gives it right back, stating “When you get there, ask me.” The French Captain Louis Renault weighs in, calling Rick a “Diplomatist.” But Major Heinrich Strasser is unsatisfied and presses, “How about New York?” Rick can’t help himself. “Well, there are certain sections of New York, Major, that I wouldn’t advise you to try to invade.” Take that! You mess with Rick Blaine, you’re messing with America. And if you want to mess with New York? Then you just might find yourself on the wrong side of a little street justice.

Ever the Womanizer

Rick Blaine is smooth. In fact he’s so smooth, when in the company of a beautiful woman, he doesn’t need to ramble on with whatever thoughts flood his mind. No, instead he does what every guy should do when they’ve yet to bed a woman. Raise a glass, look her in the eyes…and toast her. In a flashback, we see Rick look to Ilsa and simply say “Here’s looking at you, kid.” Now if that doesn’t cause the ice in your drink to melt, then I’m not sure what will.

We love “Casablanca” for the romance. We love “Casablanca” for capturing a stirring moment in American history. And we love “Casablanca” because it’s so darn quotable. So, rent it and “Play it once Sam. Play it for old times sake.”