Casablanca 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review
Score: 91
from 7 reviewers
Review Date:
Casablanca shines in a stunning 4K upgrade, a timeless masterpiece reborn.
Disc Release Date
True 4K
HDR10
DTS-HD MA
Video: 97
The 80th Anniversary 4K restoration of Casablanca, from a 1942 fine grain master and supplementary sources, boasts stunning clarity, rich contrasts, and a pristine black and white image, exquisitely detailed and encoded in HEVC for a superior visual experience.
Audio: 85
The remastered Casablanca audio presents a rich, authentic experience with improved clarity and fidelity, preserving its vintage charm while enhancing its iconic soundtrack and dialogue, alongside a broad subtitle selection.
Extra: 87
The Warner Bros. 100th Anniversary Collection features a lavishly packaged set of classic films but loses some Blu-ray extras, notably for 'Casablanca,' which retains key commentaries and memorabilia but omits several documentaries and bonus content from previous editions.
Movie: 99
Casablanca melds timeless romance, wartime intrigue, and moral complexity into a cinematic masterpiece, highlighted by iconic performances and enduring relevance.
Video: 97
The 80th Anniversary 4K UHD Blu-Ray release of "Casablanca" is a technical marvel, offering a video quality that is as close to perfection as cinema enthusiasts could have hoped for. Restored from a 1942 fine grain master positive, with ancillary elements contributing to fill gaps, the transfer is executed with meticulous care. Despite the loss of the original camera negative, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has leveraged advanced scanning technology and comprehensive digital restoration to deliver an image in native 3840 x 2160p resolution. Encoded with the HEVC (H.265) codec and presented in the film's original 1.37:1 aspect ratio, the visual presentation retains its historical authenticity while embracing modern technological advantages.
The restoration's meticulous handling of grain ensures a consistent and natural appearance, enhancing the film's fine details without succumbing to over-processing or digital manipulation. This, combined with superior disc compression, significantly elevates the overall detail, particularly in shadowed areas and textures within the cozy interiors and the vibrant streets of Casablanca. The HDR10 color grading brings an astounding depth to the black-and-white imagery, presenting an expansive greyscale that affords deep blacks and luminous whites without compromising the nuances in between. Scenes are free from noise, telecine judder, and are devoid of any dirt or debris, showcasing an exceptional clarity that makes classic elements leap off the screen.
Warner's release doesn't just offer an upgrade in visual fidelity; it is a testament to the preservation of cinematic heritage, balancing preservation with technological enhancement. The meticulous restoration and HDR application breathe new life into the film's iconic imagery, from the bustling streets to the intimate interiors of Rick's Café Américain. Such careful attention to detail results in a viewing experience that both respects and revitalizes Michael Curtiz's masterpiece for modern audiences, ensuring that "Casablanca" remains as visually stunning and engaging as ever.
Audio: 85
The 4K UHD Blu-Ray audio presentation of "Casablanca" stands as a monument to careful restoration and the preservation of historical cinema sound. The audio track, provided in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono, exhibits a meticulous enhancement over its predecessors, breathing life into the film's original mono soundtrack with a broader range of frequency response and an improved clarity that had been previously unattainable. There is an evident dedication to retaining the authenticity of the 1942 production, embodying the spirit and atmosphere of the era with a clean, hiss-free output that is remarkable for a film of its age. The restoration process has evidently focused on delivering an auditory experience that is as close to pristine as possible, removing instances of noise, crackle, and other auditory artifacts that might detract from the viewing experience.
The attention to detail in the audio’s restoration is further highlighted by the film’s iconic score and sound effects. The dynamic range allows Max Steiner's Oscar-nominated score to flourish, carrying emotional weight and atmospheric tension without overwhelming the quintessentially sharp and engaging dialogue. Even subtle sonic details, such as ambient noises and background activities, are captured with a clarity that injects a layer of immersive realism into every scene. While the mix remains mono, the richness and fidelity afford it a surprising depth that rivals multi-channel soundtracks in terms of audience engagement.
Moreover, the inclusivity of multiple language tracks and a wide array of subtitle options demonstrates a commendable effort to make this timeless classic accessible to a global audience. Despite the unavoidable limitations of an 80-year-old source material, slight analog hiss in quiet scenes and minor competitions between dialogue and music being noted, the overall audio presentation of "Casablanca" on 4K UHD Blu-Ray is nothing short of impressive. It respects and enhances the original work's integrity, ensuring that "Casablanca" continues to be experienced by audiences with the reverence it rightfully deserves.
Extra: 87
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Casablanca" offers an impressive array of extras, prominently featuring on its accompanying Blu-ray disc. Dedicated fans might note the absence of some previously included features, especially the in-depth documentaries and collections of studio memos from earlier releases. However, the available content remains robust, engaging, and enriching for both newcomers and longtime admirers of this timeless classic. Commentary tracks by film critics Roger Ebert and historian Rudy Behlmer provide insightful, scene-specific analysis, complementing a suite of extras that dive deep into the film's production, historical significance, and enduring legacy. Special attention is given to the Warner Night at the Movies feature, replicating a 1942 theater-going experience and offering a nostalgic glimpse into the era. While it's a letdown that some archival material and collectibles have been omitted, the current slate of extras still honors "Casablanca's" remarkable 80-year journey from cinematic gem to cultural landmark.
Extras included in this disc:
Introduction by Lauren Bacall: A short introduction to the film by Lauren Bacall.
Audio Commentary by Roger Ebert: Insightful commentary from the esteemed critic.
Audio Commentary by Rudy Behlmer: Detailed analysis by the renowned film historian.
Warner Night at the Movies: A collection of trailers, newsreels, and cartoons designed to replicate a 1942 movie-going experience.
Great Performances: Bacall on Bogart: An extensive PBS special on Humphrey Bogart's career.
Michael Curtiz: The Greatest Director You Never Heard Of: A documentary focusing on the director's life and work.
Casablanca: An Unlikely Classic: Dives into the making and significance of the film.
You Must Remember This: A Tribute to Casablanca: A comprehensive look at the film's production and legacy.
As Time Goes By: The Children Remember: Personal reflections from Stephen Bogart and Pia Lindstrom about their parents' roles in the movie.
Who Holds Tomorrow?: An episode from the 1955 “Casablanca” TV series.
Carrotblanca: A Warner Bros Cartoon parodying "Casablanca".
Scoring Stage Sessions: Audio tracks featuring music from the film.
Lady Esther Screen Guild Theater Radio Broadcast & Vox Pop Radio Broadcast: Vintage radio adaptations of "Casablanca".
Deleted Scenes & Outtakes: Rare behind-the-scenes footage.
Trailers: Original and re-release trailers for "Casablanca".
Movie: 99
Casablanca, now presented in stunning 4K UHD Blu-ray, continues to be a beacon of cinematic excellence, perennially transcending its wartime love story genre to become a living, breathing testament to the complexities of the human spirit. Directed with finesse by Michael Curtiz and captured through Arthur Edeson's masterful blend of romantic and noir-esque cinematography, this adaptation of Murray Burnett’s and Joan Alison's stage play encapsulates the essence of humanity amidst the throes of conflict. Max Steiner's legendary score breathes life into the hauntingly beautiful narrative, reinforcing the film's timeless appeal. The meticulously crafted story – with Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, and Paul Henreid at its core – navigates a labyrinth of moral dilemmas against the backdrop of WWII, delivering an exploration of love, sacrifice, and the stark realities of war.
The film's restoration for its 80th Anniversary Edition showcases an even more refined visual and audio experience, staying true to Warner Bros.' commitment to preserving cinematic heritage. It's remarkable how Casablanca, through its nuanced portrayal of conflicted characters and moral ambiguities, continues to resonate with contemporary audiences, offering a mirror to today’s global conflicts while advocating for hope and redemption. The performances of Bogart and Bergman remain as compelling as ever, emblematic of love lost and found in the most trying of circumstances. It's their story, coupled with Curtiz's directorial brilliance and a script replete with iconic lines, that cements Casablanca's place in the annals of film history.
Beyond being just a film, Casablanca serves as a canvas reflecting the myriad human experiences during wartime – from the hopeful young couple seeking passage to America to the chilling yet charismatic police captain Renault. Its rich tapestry of characters continues to evoke a broad spectrum of emotions, making every viewing experience both unique and familiar. Curtiz’s ability to intertwine multiple subplots without detracting from the central narrative is a testament to his directorial prowess. In its latest 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation, every frame articulates the technical mastery and storytelling genius that have made Casablanca an enduring classic. While it remains deeply anchored in its era, its themes of sacrifice, love, and moral integrity transcend time, continuing to captivate and inspire generations anew.
Total: 91
Warner Bros.' release of "Casablanca" on 4K UHD Blu-ray is a true testament to the studio’s commitment to preserving cinematic history while embracing the latest in home entertainment technology. The restoration work is impeccable, utilizing a 4K 16bit scan of the best surviving nitrate elements to produce an HDR transfer that is nothing short of miraculous for a film of this age. This painstaking effort ensures every frame of Michael Curtiz’s masterpiece is presented with the kind of clarity and detail that far surpasses previous home video editions. The remastered audio complements this visual upgrade beautifully, offering a sonic experience that is as immersive as the visual. While the package maintains the same rich array of extras found in earlier Blu-ray releases, the real star here is the film itself, now more breathtaking than ever.
The inclusion of both a 1080p Blu-ray and a digital copy ensures that this release caters to a wide range of preferences and setups, making it an enticing offer for both newcomers to classic cinema and die-hard fans of the film. Notably, while there are no new extras beyond what was previously available, the quality of the A/V presentation makes this release stand out. It's an essential acquisition for those who appreciate the artistry of classic films in the finest detail possible.
In conclusion, Warner Bros.' 4K Ultra-HD Blu-ray release of "Casablanca" is an exemplary showcase of how technology can breathe new life into cinematic classics. It is a must-own for film enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled visual and auditory experience that respects the original work's integrity while delivering it to audiences in a way that could have once only been dreamed of. With its stunning image quality, remastered audio, and comprehensive extras, this edition of "Casablanca" stands as a paragon of home video releases and further cements the film’s place not just in cinema history, but in the hearts of those who experience this unforgettable love story anew in its most definitive version yet.
avforums review by Mark CostelloRead review here
Video: 100
It’s easy to see that the film does have a certain degree of fluctuations – optical fades are prevalent and the restoration chooses to keep the second-generation images throughout the shot of the fade,...
Audio: 90
The music has a decent fidelity and while high and low frequencies are not as per modern soundtracks, there doesn’t appear to be too much missing at the extremes of the audible range....
Extras: 40
In Casablanca’s case, the included 1080p disc on the standalone release had the following extras that are now NOT included on the disc included in this set: What IS included on the 4K disc is: In this...
Movie: 100
With the little character flourishes that show so many facets of the human experience of war – the young newlyweds so desperate for passage they’ll believe anything are a scary display of the naivety of...
Total: 90
9 Movies & TV Shows Review 7 Singin' in the Rain 4K Blu-ray Review by Mark Costello · Apr 27, 2022 Gene Kelly’s cinematic equivalent of joy personified is given a spiffing new 4K transfer ready for us...
Blu-ray.com review by Randy Miller IIIRead review here
Video: 100
These three source elements were newly scanned using improved technology and, combined with the greater format resolution of true 4K and a rather tasteful application of HDR10, the result is a much finer,...
Audio: 80
Thankfully, a faux-surround remix has again not been attempted; it's nothing but pure, unfiltered original audio as far as the ears can hear, along with several foreign dubs and most of the same subtitle...
Extras: 100
Trailers (2 clips, 5:08 total) - The original theatrical trailer and a re-release version....
Movie: 100
There's nothing else new here, though: it's a combo pack with the single-disc 70th Anniversary Edition as the Blu-ray, with its older master and copious vintage extras, that leaves out the Giftset's impressive...
Total: 90
Although no new extras have been added (and if you own the 70th Anniversary Giftset (reviewed here), some have actually been subtracted), the A/V upgrades leave a substantial enough impression to make...
The Digital Bits review by Barrie MaxwellRead review here
Video: 100
[Editor’s Note: When Casablanca first appeared on HD disc in 2007, our late friend and Classic Coming Attractions columnist Barrie Maxwell wrote a lengthy review here on The Digital Bits—one that, I believe,...
Audio: 85
The film’s sonic quality has been upgraded too, thanks to a new audio restoration designed to enhance the overall clarity and frequency response of the original theatrical mono mix....
Extras: 95
...
Movie: 100
[Editor’s Note: When Casablanca first appeared on HD disc in 2007, our late friend and Classic Coming Attractions columnist Barrie Maxwell wrote a lengthy review here on The Digital Bits—one that, I believe,...
Total: 95
It’s hard to imagine today the emotional impact Casablanca must have had on audiences in 1942, debuting as it did only a year after America’s entrance into World War II....
DoBlu review by Matt PaprockiRead review here
Video: 100
Grain is not only preserved but resolved without a single instance of compression to find....
Audio: 100
Even the dialog sounds new, completely defying how early Casablanca entered the sound era....
Extras: 80
Night at the Movies a vastly underrated bonus, replicating the classic theatrical experience with trailers, newsreels, and cartoons, becoming a transition into the main feature....
Movie: 100
It’s easier for him to lie down for the invading forces than remember a short, heated relationship in Paris....
Total: 95
The iconic example of showmanship and relevance, Casablanca remains a masterpiece for its absolute power over audiences....
High-Def Digest review by David KraussRead review here
Video: 100
The studio rose to the task and the result is a consistently dazzling effort that's more vibrant, lush, and detailed than any previous rendering....
Audio: 90
Because of the music's more assertive presence both in the foreground and background, it competes ever so slightly with the priceless dialogue....
Extras: 100
Documentary: "Casablanca: An Unlikely Classic" (HD, 35 minutes) - All the participants from the Curtiz documentary and some other cinema experts provide an in-depth look at the production of Casablanca,...
Movie: 100
If indeed the image is not from Casablanca, it's astounding such an error could have slipped through so many quality-control checks, especially considering the film's iconic nature, the wealth of easily...
Total: 100
Warner sweetens the deal by importing almost all the bountiful extras from the two previous Blu-ray releases and including both a 1080p Blu-ray and digital copy....
AVSForum review by Ralph PottsRead review here
Video: 96
Those that have been waiting for this beloved piece of American Cinema to come to Ultra HD Blu-ray have been rewarded with this excellent technical offering from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment....
Audio: 80
According to the press documentation, the original theatrical mono audio has also been newly restored as well, providing a richer and broader frequency response than previously possible....
Extras: 100
The Dover Boys at Pimento University (1942 WB cartoon) • Great Performances: Bacall on Bogart (1988 PBS special) •...
Movie: 100
Ilsa offers herself in exchange for Laszlo's transport out of the country and bitter Rick must decide what counts more – personal happiness or countless lives hanging in the balance....
Total: 94
The film’s original elements appear intact and yield image and sound quality that probably rival it theatrical presentation....
Why So Blu? review by Brandon PetersRead review here
Video: 100
Black Levels: Blacks are deep and natural and really paint the picture of the film better than they ever have....
Audio: 90
2.0 Dolby Digital, Czech 2.0 Mono Dolby Digital, Hungarian 2.0 Mono Dolby Digital, Polish 2.0 Mono Dolby DigitalSubtitles: English SDH, French, German SDH, Italian SDH, Spanish (Castilian), Netherlands,...
Extras: 100
As Time Goes By: The Children Remember (SD, 6:45)Additional FootageDeleted Scenes (SD, 1:40) Outtakes (SD, 4:58)...
Movie: 100
A fantastic story that pulls from almost every genre’s elements to culminate in such a lightning in the bottle effort of technical prowess, engaging story and characters, and performances that would echo...
Total: 100
The video transfer and restoration is the only difference between this and the previous Blu-ray release (included in this package)....
Director: Michael Curtiz
Actors: Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Paul Henreid
PlotIn the midst of World War II, Rick Blaine, an American expatriate, runs an upscale nightclub and gambling den in Casablanca, Morocco. The city has become a hub for refugees desperate to obtain exit visas to escape to America. Although Rick professes to be neutral and uninvolved in the war, his café serves as a melting pot for a motley crew of patrons, including Nazi officials, Vichy French, resistance fighters, and those looking to flee the devastation in Europe. The cynical and brooding Rick encounters a past lover, Ilsa Lund, who walks into his establishment with her Czech resistance leader husband, Victor Laszlo. The surprise encounter reawakens old feelings and plunges Rick into a tumult of emotions.
Ilsa's arrival coincides with the possession of two “letters of transit” that have come into Rick's hands—documents that are paramount for anyone seeking freedom from the war-torn continent. As Rick and Ilsa confront their unresolved past and the deep love they still hold for one another, her husband Laszlo is actively pursued by the local authorities under German influence, who seek to prevent him from continuing his fight against the Nazis. With the pressure to choose between his love for Ilsa, his own self-interest, and the higher cause of aiding the resistance movement, Rick must navigate a complex web of moral and emotional challenges.
Writers: Julius J. Epstein, Philip G. Epstein, Howard Koch
Release Date: 23 Jan 1943
Runtime: 102 min
Rating: PG
Country: United States
Language: English, French, German, Italian, Russian