Here's looking at you: Visual Effects in Casablanca

While Casablanca doesn't explicitly fall into the category of film noir, the strategic use of shadows and lighting contribute greatly to the depth of the film. As Plate stated in "Religion, Art, and Visual Culture," "there is a complex of issues related to understanding the meaning of this 'work of art'"(4.) The way in which dark and light juxtapose one another in Casablanca give an insight into character conflict, particularly that of Rick.

 

 The moment when Rick and Ilsa first come into contact with one another is one example of the importance of lighting. Ilsa is overwhelmed with light. She is the object of Rick's desire, and in his mind, even if only in those first few moments, she is a sacred being. Ilsa's presence gives Rick a sense of power and being in control, and he, too, is glowing. Amidst all of the war and war-weary people, Rick finds a moment of stability in his reunion with Ilsa.

This moment does not last for long, however. Once Ilsa leaves, Rick is brought back to reality. Now he not only has to deal with the problems of the exit visas in his possession and getting Victor Laszlo out of the country, but the issue of Ilsa coming back after abruptly leaving him in Paris. In this particular shot, the lack of light masks Rick's feelings to the people within the film, but gives the viewers insight into his feelings of resentment and powerlessness.

As the movie progresses, the general backdrop becomes more and more ominous. Rick had a brief and bright tryst with Ilsa at the beginning, but his inner conflict continues to grow as he discovers Ilsa is married to Victor, and he has to decide whether he wants to get Laszlo out of the country after acquiring the knowledge of Ilsa's relationship with him. Rick temporarily believes Ilsa will stay with him, but the visuals reveal that his dream is doomed. He must sacrifice his personal desires for Ilsa's happiness. In the final scene, Rick is seen walking away with Renault. The backdrop is foggy, but comparatively well lit. This signifies the start Rick's journey back out of darkness, but the ultimate destination is unknown.


These are but a few examples of the importance of visuals in Casablanca, but they are helpful in understanding Plate's visual culture and it's relevance to the movie. This film takes place on the backdrop of World War II, in the unoccupied Moroccan city of Casablanca. Not only is this film set during the war, but it was released essentially as anti-Axis propaganda during the height of the war. The "identity of those who view the image" (5) was something that needed to be taken into account. Religion was a sensitive subject during the war, but many were disenchanted by the war and probably needed some sense of religion. The film itself is not overtly religious, but there are hints of religious experiences (guided by brilliant visual effects) throughout the movie. For example, Ilsa serves as a heavenly creature to Rick, and even during his darkest times, Rick has profound feelings for Ilsa and she helps guide him in finding virtue. He makes a painful sacrifice by letting her go,  but it is ultimately the right and honorable decision. The use of cinematography in this film help to enhance not only these relatable experiences but all aspects of visual culture, and as a result Casablanca has become one of the most revered films of all time. 

-Haley Paulish