Casablanca

Michael Curtiz, 1942

I'm generally not one for romantic love stories, but Casablanca is much more than that; it is a film depicting human nature and life very deep down. Such a plot, such an ultra-fast pace of storytelling, such great acting... I particularly love Claude Rains as the charming Captain Renault. I think the film has one of the best film endings ever made: the twist of plot was so unpredictable yet so meaningful and understandable. How two important figures can be formal enemies but smart businessmen whenever a chance for common business arises. The character played by Bogart, a smart, witty, outspoken, brave, ethical and capable man, had turned from a resistance-fighter into a highly successful yet cynical casino-runner by utter disappointment in love... such a larger-than-life story. The hatred Rick displays towards Ilsa when meeting her is wonderfully written.