‘Masterpiece’ romantic drama set throughout WW2 is free to observe now | Films | Entertainment | EUROtoday

One of cinema’s most celebrated masterpieces is now accessible to stream totally free on BBC iPlayer. Renowned for its timeless storytelling, unforgettable performances, and emotional depth, this movie continues to captivate audiences a long time after its launch. It’s a must-see expertise that blends drama and romance in a manner few films ever obtain.

Set in opposition to the tense and terrifying backdrop of World War 2, it’s a narrative that additionally captures the excessive stakes of the period. With simply ten days left to observe totally free, do not miss this uncommon probability to see a real traditional in all its glory, utterly free. Here’s why you need to watch Casablanca (1942).

What’s the plot?

During the early days of World War 2, nightclub proprietor Rick Blaine runs Rick’s Café in Casablanca. This cafe has turn into a type of haven for refugees searching for to acquire illicit letters that can assist them escape to America. Rick is thought for his indifferent manner till the sudden arrival of his former lover, Ilsa Lund.

Ilsa arrives together with her husband, Victor Laszlo, a famend insurgent who’s being pursued by the Germans. Ilsa turns to Rick for assist securing the papers they should escape, forcing him to confront outdated wounds and make a heart-wrenching selection between love and sacrifice.

Why you need to watch?

According to IMDb, Casablanca has 18 awards and 12 nominations, together with Best Picture, Best Writing, Screenplay, and Best Director on the Oscars.

The movie web site has additionally awarded the film a formidable 8.5 stars out of 10, whereas on Rotten Tomatoes, Casablanca has an nearly good rating of 99% critics and 95% from the viewers.

The critics’ consensus on the tomato-based score web site raved that the traditional movie is “an undisputed masterpiece and perhaps Hollywood’s quintessential statement on love and romance. Casablanca has only improved with age, boasting career-defining performances from Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman.”

A prime reviewer from Awards Daily, Mark Johnson, agreed with the consensus and commented: “With an incredibly gripping narrative, filled with unforgettable characters and endlessly quotable dialogue. Casablanca is a heart-wrenching and inspiring tale of sacrifice, love, integrity, and the power of patriotism. The greatest movie ever made.”

Keith Garlington from Keith & the Movies mentioned, “Casablanca captures and utilises so many things well. There’s a high level of suspense. There’s a touch of humour. There is a great realisation of wartime tensions. And right in the middle of it all is what may be the best romance in cinema history.”

A fan of the movie commented underneath Warner Bros.’ remake of the trailer in 4K on YouTube and mentioned: “We’re talking about a movie that really moves you deeply. I’ve watched it over 50 times – it’s one of those films you just can’t get enough of! In fact, I even bought it on YouTube on June 16, 2025.”