I'm planning a Casablanca theme party for next Sunday. My clunky dining room table will be moved out and I'll have small tables set up, café style.
I had cocktail napkins personalized to say "Rick's Café Americain." There's a palm tree image on them, to remind you of Morocco. Or L.A., where the movie was shot. I found small votive lights with battery-operated bulbs that flicker like the real thing. (My safety-wise husband doesn't allow open flames in the house.) As part of the program we'll watch the movie on a 58-inch Hi Def TV screen. At least one of my brothers-in-law is dusting off his white tuxedo jacket.
Like my guests, I love that movie. But I can't watch the end. Too sad. Go with him, I want to scream. Go with Rick! You did all you could for Victor What's-his-name.
There are a number of other movies in this category – I love them but I can't watch the end. Godfather 3 is one. The ending broke my heart the first time I saw it, so I watch right up to that point, then it's off.
Don't even get me started on Italian opera. Rigoletto, for example. Remember: the scumbag Rigoletto thought he killed is singing in the distance; it's his own daughter in the sack he's dragging behind his poor humped back.
I can't stand sad endings. I know they're realistic, but I don't have to like them.
What do you think? Should Ilsa have stayed with Rick?
