Casablanca

Michael Curitz’s film Casablanca first premiered in New York City at the Hollywood Theater on November 26, 1942. Casablanca’s general release occurred on January 23, 1943. James Berardinelli states that “Unlike many films that later became classics, Casablanca was popular in its day, although a cadre of officials at Warner Brothers were convinced that it would be a box-office failure.” The film was a noteworthy, yet not outstanding box-office success. On its initial U.S. release, Casablanca made $3.7 million, and became the seventh best-selling film of 1943.

James Berardinelli says “It's probably no stretch to say that Casablanca, arguably America's best-loved movie, has had more words written about it than any other motion picture.” Reviews of Casablanca were mostly positive as the film won three awards at the Oscars of 1944. Those awards included Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Director, and Best Picture. Eventually, by the year 1977, Casablanca became the most frequently broadcast film on American television.