Often when we think of heroes, one of the first things we picture is their insurmountable passion for their cause, the same one we, the viewers, rally behind alongside them. In Michael Curtiz’s <i>Casablanca</i>, however, the setting and our hero, Richard (Rick) Blaine, are defined by their efforts to remain neutral.
Technically, Casablanca, both the fictionalized film version and the Moroccan reality, was neutral territory at the start of WWII. Nearly all of our characters, except notably Rick, are terrified of being trapped in Casablanca, this place synonymous with neutrality, and dying there. Keeping this in mind, it wouldn’t be a stretch to claim that the film’s attitude toward neutrality is not positive. If remaining in Casablanca is dangerous, then remaining neutral is dangerous.
Rick, the “neutral” hero and only American character, represents the United States and their decision to remain neutral in WWII until 1941. Throughout the film, Rick claims to be neutral, refusing to discuss the war and quickly shutting down talk of underground meetings. As time goes on, however, and the pressure in Casablanca rises, it becomes abundantly clear neutrality is not an option. Rick shifts from apparent indifference to a place of commitment. His support for the Allies goes from subtle acts, like restricting German access to the casino’s back room, to full blown partisanship, which culminates in his decision to help Ilsa and Victor escape. By the end of the film, Rick finally embraces his position as the passionate hero we have come to expect and we realize neutrality is an impossible and alarming feat.
—Brittany Pratt