Kozaites, WWII Politics in Casablanca

The last scene of ‘Casablanca’ is perhaps the most often quoted ending in cinematic history, with “Here’s looking at you, kid”, “We’ll always have Paris”, “Round up the usual suspects”, and “Louis, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship” just to name a few. The reason the ending is so memorable is because of Rick’s selflessness and heroic actions. The use of political expediency in the film further justifies the need to enter into the Second World War and displayed the necessity of it at the time. If Rick represents the American government, then Ilsa became a representation of American lives. However hard it is for Rick to send Ilsa away, it is necessary because Lazlo needs her in order to fight the Nazis. This would suggest that Lazlo represented the Allies in Europe fighting before the Americans entered.
The scene pictured shows everybody looking to Rick, suggesting that he has the power and command. However, Rick is looking at Ilsa, which show that ultimately he cares about her above everything else. They are separated in the scene by Lazlo and Renault implying that the war will, has, and must interfere with the lives of Rick and Ilsa.
The lighting in the film goes from bright and lively to dark and gray hinting that Rick, along with America, would know be entering into a dark uncertain time of war. However this ominous setting is counteracted by Ricks optimistic line concerning the impending friendship between him and Captain Renault. This would suggest that although times would be difficult the American people must persevere in order to win the war.