Overview
The final sequence of Casablanca is widely regarded as one of the most poignant scenes across cinema. We are displayed a heartfelt final goodbye between Rick and Ilsa, before Rick shoots Major Strasser – symbolising good triumphing over evil. The sequence ends with Rick and Renault walking off into the mist, before Rick speaks the iconic final line of the film: “I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship”.
Cinematography
The sequence opens on a mid-tracking shot of an airport attendee, before coming to rest on the moving car. The camera then tracks the movements of the passengers leaving the car, before pulling out further into a five-shot that displays who Captain Renault is speaking to. This is a clear example of the Classical Hollywood style of camera technique, and blocking which prevents the requirement for any jarring cuts that would shatter the immersion for the viewer.
Rick and Ilsa’s final exchange is filmed with a tight two-shot, framing them in a romantic manner. This also alleviates the requirement to film a shot/reverse shot sequence, which would be less immersive. Both characters are filmed in a shallow depth of focus, directing the viewer’s attention towards Rick and Ilsa.
Sound
A number of reoccurring leitmotifs can be heard in Steiner’s non-diegetic score during this sequence, including As Time Goes By. This encourages the viewer to reminisce on Rick and Ilsa’s relationship, and how it has evolved over the course of the film.
Mise-en-scène
Lighting is utilised to make Rick’s eyes glisten alongside Ilsa’s for the the first time, emphasising the heartfelt nature of their final conversation. He has finally come to terms with his relationship with Ilsa.
Editing
A rapid shot/reverse shot sequence is employed between Rick and Major Strasser heightens the tension of the scene, before cutting to an over-the-shoulder shot that displays Rick’s quickdraw victory.
Performance
Renault’s line “round up the usual suspects” harkens back to his earlier line heard in the opening sequence. It informs us that he is not going to incriminate Rick, reinforcing his sleazy demeanour.
Context and Representation
Instead of immediately shooting Strasser, Rick gives him three chances before finally shooting him in a non-fatal way. This represents Rick as the noble rugged individual American protagonist archetype.
When Strasser is shot, no blood is displayed due to the restrictions of the Hays Code. This emphasises the content restrictions that Casablanca had to abide by.
Renault actively chooses to throw the Vichy-labelled water into the bin, proceeding to then kick it. This symbolically reflects Jack L. Warner’s views on the abolition of fascism – it is his way of encouraging America to join the war.
Otis Morley’s A-Level Film Studies Blog 