Let me assure you, "Background to Danger" (1943), directed by Raoul Walsh from a screenplay by W.R. Burnett, is NOT "Casablanca."
Even though it is a wartime Warner Brothers picture with strong pro-Allied sentiments, it is not "Casablanca."
Even though it is a wartime Warner Brothers picture with strong pro-Allied sentiments, it is not "Casablanca."
It comments on the connection between American and European powers in the war, but it is not "Casablanca."
Though it boasts colorful turns from supporting players Peter Lorre and Sydney Greenstreet, it is not "Casablanca."
Though it stars George Raft, a man whose career history will forever link with Humphrey Bogart, "Background to Danger" is not "Casablanca."
Though the opening shows us a map as a solemn narrator sets up the scenario for us and informs us that the locale (Turkey) is full of intrigue--and, hey, it's the same announcer (Lou Marcelle) who introduces "Casablanca"--this is NOT "Casablanca."
But back in 1943, I'll bet Warners sure wouldn't have minded if you, you know, kind of got confused on the issue and went to see it.
What IS "Background to Danger," then? Well, it's a pretty good wartime espionage pic, with the supporting performances making it worthwhile. There are some fun action sequences, and Raft has a role that doesn't embarrass him. He pretty much just has to look tough, confident, and American, and he pulls that off. I personally enjoy watching Raft in general, but this movie in particular must be one of his better roles.
Still, perhaps the best reason to see this is the presence of those two "Casablanca" vets Lorre and Greenstreet, who give you an entertaining scene whenever they appear. Watching this movie, you get the sense it's missing something, that more could be done with the theme of warring powers vying for influence in neutral Turkey. More Lorre and Greeny would be a step in the right direction. Maybe the romance angle should be stronger. Uh, not that I necessarily want Lorre and Greeny involved there.
It's a George Raft picture, though, and as such, it ain't a bad way to spend an hour and 20 minutes. Just don't expect "Casablanca."
What IS "Background to Danger," then? Well, it's a pretty good wartime espionage pic, with the supporting performances making it worthwhile. There are some fun action sequences, and Raft has a role that doesn't embarrass him. He pretty much just has to look tough, confident, and American, and he pulls that off. I personally enjoy watching Raft in general, but this movie in particular must be one of his better roles.
Still, perhaps the best reason to see this is the presence of those two "Casablanca" vets Lorre and Greenstreet, who give you an entertaining scene whenever they appear. Watching this movie, you get the sense it's missing something, that more could be done with the theme of warring powers vying for influence in neutral Turkey. More Lorre and Greeny would be a step in the right direction. Maybe the romance angle should be stronger. Uh, not that I necessarily want Lorre and Greeny involved there.
It's a George Raft picture, though, and as such, it ain't a bad way to spend an hour and 20 minutes. Just don't expect "Casablanca."
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