Casablanca

During World War II, Casablanca becomes a critical stop for numerous refugees escaping Nazi-occupied Europe. With exit visas in high demand, the city is rife with tension as local authorities become increasingly vigilant over strangers.

Two German couriers carrying valuable letters of transit signed by General Charles DeGaulle are murdered in the city. This shocking event triggers a wave of arrests as the local police search for strangers who might be involved.

German Major Heinrich Strasser arrives in Casablanca to investigate the theft of the letters of transit. Upon his arrival, he discusses the urgency of the situation with Captain Louis Renault, indicating the pressing need to prevent resistance leader Victor Lazlo from obtaining the letters.

In Rick's Café Americain, Ugarte, a dealer in illegal visas, approaches Rick with a risky proposal. He asks Rick to hold the stolen letters temporarily, believing that selling them will ensure his escape from Casablanca.

Ferrari, the owner of the Blue Parrot nightclub, attempts to buy out Rick's café. Rick, staunch in his independence, refuses to sell, yet learns more about the underworld of forged exit visas that Ferrari controls.

After a short argument with his former lover Yvonne, Rick confronts Captain Renault about the recent arrests. Declaring his disillusionment, Rick vows not to interfere in the ensuing chaos, revealing his cynical outlook on life.

Victor Lazlo and his companion, Ilsa Lund, enter Rick's café. Ilsa's recognition of Sam, the piano player, leads to the controversial request for the song 'As Time Goes By,' stirring past feelings in Rick.

In a poignant flashback, Rick recalls his passionate love affair with Ilsa in Paris before the Nazis invaded. He remembers their bittersweet parting when Ilsa, believing he was in danger, sends him away with a farewell note.

Rick learns that Ugarte has been killed by the police while in custody, allegedly during an escape attempt. This news underscores the perilous atmosphere in Casablanca and heightens the stakes for those harboring resistance hopes.

During a tense moment at the café, Lazlo orders the band to play 'La Marseillaise,' defying the Germans. The patrons join in, creating a powerful display of unity against oppression, angering Strasser and pushing the boundaries of rebellion in Casablanca.

Ilsa confides in Rick that she stayed behind in Paris upon learning that Lazlo, whom she had thought dead, was alive. This revelation creates an emotional tension between them, reigniting old feelings while complicating their current predicament.

Rick makes a significant choice to trick Renault into allowing Lazlo's release from prison. Recognizing the greater good, Rick prepares to support Lazlo and Ilsa in their escape despite his personal feelings for her.

At the airport, Rick faces stolen duty and sacrifices his own desires for Ilsa's happiness. As the plane's departure looms, he reveals the full truth about their past and assures Lazlo that Ilsa's future is with him.

Strasser arrives as Rick, Ilsa, and Lazlo prepare to leave. In a moment of decisive action, Rick shoots Strasser to prevent him from stopping their escape, showcasing his transformation from cynic to resolute hero.

As the plane takes off, Rick and Renault solidify an unexpected alliance. They plan their own escape to a Free French garrison, signaling a new chapter in their lives and leaving behind the chaos of Casablanca.