听 Crammed with classic lines and fraught with tension, Casablanca is "a brilliant film that merits inclusion in every self-respecting film critic's top three". On the 2000 DVD release, though, we found that "the print needs restoration work, with some unacceptable damage in chapter 13". Now a new two-disc special edition rectifies those problems with a clear picture transfer and a strong mono sound mix. Topped off with comprehensive extra features, this cinema classic finally has a showcase DVD release.
President Rick
Two commentaries thick with information provide a masterclass on the making of the movie. Film critic Roger Ebert talks about what makes the film work, while film historian Rudy Behlmer reels off facts about the production, including the rather frightening revelation that Ronald Reagan was originally cast for the part of Rick.
A Middle Aged Sensation
The making of Casablanca is efficiently summarised in the documentary You Must Remember This (on disc two), although the commentaries are more comprehensive. The highlight of the second disc is the 80-minute documentary Bacall On Bogart, where Lauren Bacall takes us through the extraordinary career of her husband, who made 75 films in his career, but only achieved stardom in his middle age (he died at the age of 57, in 1957). The programme includes many clips from his early films, some great anecdotes, and colour footage of Bogey at play with his son Stephen.
Missing Material
Some fascinating vintage footage has been dug up for this DVD, including a deleted scene and five minutes of outtakes - while not the laugh-out-loud type, they do give you a glimpse of actors at work that were only ever presented as faultless in their craft. Another treat is the 1943 radio production of the film, which makes for atmospheric bedtime listening, along with a selection of recordings of Dooley Wilson's songs from the film.
EXTRA FEATURES
This DVD was reviewed on a JVC XV-N5 DVD player.
