New Year's Resolutions: Casablanca

One of my New Year's Resolutions was to watch one old movie each month in 2011. With only a few days left in the month I was starting to get nervous that this resolution may not happen.

This month I decided to watch Casablanca. Sadly, I had never seen this movie before OR even heard what is was about.

If you haven't seen this film, you ABSOLUTELY must immediately.

I thought I would share my TOP 10 REASONS for adoring this film.

1. I love watching movies about WWII. That era is romanticized in my mind. Also, having visited Auschwitz in 2006 makes me feel "connected" to the suffering that took place during this time period.

"Work makes one free" - the entry gate to Auschwitz, enticing captives to work in hopes of gaining freedom

2. This dress. This picture doesn't do it justice, but this dress is unbelievably perfect. And of course, Ingrid Bergman is stunningly beautiful.

3. Humphrey Bogart's hat. He's sexy. Not much else to say about that.

4. I watched the film in black and white. There is something magical about black and white movies.

5. This song... "As Time Goes By" - If I knew how to do iTunes, I would buy it. (Am I the only person left in the world that has never owned or operated an iPod?) Maybe I'll have my Sam buy it for me tomorrow.

6. I finally know why people always say, "Here's lookin' at you, kid." I think I may start saying this.

7. I finally know why people always say, "I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship." I think this is cheesy; I'm not planning on using this phrase anytime soon.

8. Sacrificial love... Ilsa and Rick each make life-changing sacrifices for the one they love. There is nothing more romantic than choosing what is best, not for yourself, but for the one you love.

9. Sam. I just plain ole like him and his powerful voice.

10. The most passionate scene I've ever scene in which the characters aren't even touching one another...

 I can't wait to decide on what movie I'll watch it February. This resolution is turning out to be a lot of fun for me! (My husband does not seem to be finding this to be so enjoyable... Maybe Singing in the Rain or Citizen Kane will win him over!)

Here's lookin' at you, kid.