---
title: "Casablanca"
year: 1943
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/casablanca-1943"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 289
imdb_id: "tt0034583"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 102
community_rating: 8.1
vote_count: 6112
content_rating: "PG"
---

# Casablanca (1943) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/casablanca-1943

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

Casablanca is a 1943 film set in Morocco during December 1941. The story follows a cynical American expatriate who encounters a former romantic partner, leading to unexpected complications. The narrative unfolds in the North African city that serves as the film's primary location. This encounter between the protagonist and his past love interest drives the central conflict of the story. The film explores themes of romance, moral ambiguity, and personal transformation against the backdrop of World War II. The expatriate character's initial cynicism contrasts with the unforeseen circumstances that arise from this reunion. Set during a pivotal moment in global history, the story examines how personal relationships intersect with larger historical forces. The complications that emerge from this chance meeting in Casablanca create the dramatic tension that propels the narrative forward throughout the film.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A cynical American expatriate encounters a former lover in Morocco during the Second World War."

### Why Watch
- classic performances
- compelling narrative

### Caveats & Content Note
- black and white visuals
- older pacing
- Tone & Suitability: The film is rated PG and contains themes appropriate for general audiences.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: romantic, dramatic, historical

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | HBO Max Amazon Channel, YouTube TV, TCM, HBO Max | None | Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | HBO Max Amazon Channel, HBO Max | None | Apple TV Store, Rakuten TV, Amazon Video |
| **Canada (CA)** | Crave, Starz Amazon Channel, Crave Amazon Channel | None | Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, CosmoGo |
| **Australia (AU)** | HBO Max, HBO Max Amazon Channel | None | JustWatch TV, Apple TV Store, Amazon Video |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Michael Curtiz
- **Networks / Studios**: Warner Bros. Pictures

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Humphrey Bogart** as *Rick Blaine*
- **Ingrid Bergman** as *Ilsa Lund*
- **Paul Henreid** as *Victor Laszlo*
- **Claude Rains** as *Captain Louis Renault*
- **Conrad Veidt** as *Major Heinrich Strasser*
- **Sydney Greenstreet** as *Signor Ferrari*
- **Peter Lorre** as *Ugarte*
- **S.Z. Sakall** as *Carl*
- **Madeleine Lebeau** as *Yvonne*
- **Dooley Wilson** as *Sam*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: When was the film released?
The film was released in the United States on January 23, 1943.

### Q: Who directed the film?
The film was directed by Michael Curtiz.

### Q: Where is the story set?
The story is set in Casablanca, Morocco, during December 1941.

### Q: Who are the lead actors?
The film stars Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, and Paul Henreid.

### Q: What is the genre of the film?
It is classified as a romantic drama.

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*