Over the years, I’ve seen “Casablanca” well over 100 times, perhaps twice that. But this was the first time I’d seen it when the world was bracing for war.

Thanks, TCM and Fathom Events, for letting us see it on the big screen once again.

There are chilling similarities between 1942 and 2022, both in Europe and in the Pacific. Here, too. As Rick says: “I bet they’re asleep in New York. I bet they’re asleep all over America.”

I’ve always been especially moved by the above scene, which reminds us of the freedom of human spirit in the face of oppression. I dedicate this clip to freedom fighters all over the world, and at home.

“Vive la démocratie!”