Happy 100th Birthday Ingrid Bergman!

Happy Birthday Ingrid Bergman! Today would have been Ingrid's centennial birthday and the 33rd anniversary of her death. She was a woman who lived a full life and it turned out to be a full circle.

Here are some of my favorite Ingrid Bergman clips. Thank you Ms. Bergman for your constant inspiration and for all the amazing films you did. You were a true star.

Here is a wonderful interview with Michael Douglas, where Ingrid discusses acting like a dog with her father and her life as an actress. The elephant trunk part makes me laugh.

Here is my favorite scene from Autumn Sonata, Ingrid's last film on the silver screen. She knew how to play piano, and though the music was dubbed, the fingering and positioning were correct. I find this film and this scene in particular incredibly poignant and powerful. Liv Ullman and Ingmar Bergman (no relation) also being two amazing filmmakers and people who Ingrid not only worked with, but touched with her performance skills. 

Speaking of that influence, here is an interview with Liv Ullman in which she talks about Ingrid's work on Autumn Sonata and who Ingrid was as a person. She had a strong personality and was extremely honest, still marvelous to hear.

Here is a scene from Gaslight (1944). If you haven't seen this film, don't watch this clip. See the whole film. This was the first of her films I saw and I was hooked. Her performance overall is amazing, but in this scene she executes a moment by moment performance that not only won her an Oscar, but also is one of the best performances ever recorded. Working with Charles Boyer, Angela Lansbury and Joseph Cotton as well as directed by the great George Cukor. 

Here is Ingrid's first American film, a remake of the Swedish, Intermezzo. Again, we find her behind the ivories, tickling them in perfect fashion and creating a character so lovely and complicated one cannot look away. Also, it seems she never stops working with A-list talent, her love in this film being Lesley Howard. 

This is my favorite Ingrid Bergman film: Alfred Hitchcock's Notorious. Much like Casablanca, the historical timing and relevance of this film is insurmountable. They just made it in under the wire with discussions of South American Nazis and illegal activity with Uranium. Too close to the papers some might think, but it made perfect drama for this film. She works with Claude Rains and Cary Grant, two fantastic leading men and this film is so sexy and brilliant it almost hurts my brain. The key, the uranium, the drunken car ride and who can forget the kiss scene? 

Now I will leave you with a few other scenes that I love for various reasons, but I'm going to let them speak for themselves. There are so many fantastic films and clips of Ingrid Bergman and her performances can work completely on their own.

The Spellbound dream sequence.

The Cactus Flower dance scene. 

The champagne scene from her "comeback" film, Anastasia. 

Her iconic Ilsa and Sam scene from Casablanca.

Cary Grant and Ingrid's dance in Stanley Donan's film Indiscreet.

Ingrid's general performance in Roberto Rossellini's Stromboli

I could go on, but Youtube is limiting. I hope you all enjoy some Ingrid Bergman films today and remember her for the amazing career she had. She inspired me to become a filmmaker and to make things happen and I've always enjoyed writing this blog. Cheers to you Ingrid.

Ingrid's daughter Pia Lindstrom gives an Emmy acceptance speech for A Woman Called Golda, Ingrid had passed away just before this award was issued.

Ingrid Bergman's Centennial Month

August 29th will mark Ingrid Bergman's 100th birthday as well as the 33rd anniversary of her death. Cannes hosted her face on their billboards and programs this year, a gorgeous photo of her from the 1950s that was fresh, sleek and a perfect celebration of someone who contributed to that festival specifically.

Other institutions are also celebrating the genius, style and choices of Ms. Bergman. The New Yorker just posted an article by Richard Brody called "A Life of Her Own: Celebrating Ingrid Bergman’s centenary onscreen"  In which Ingrid is referred to as a "genius" and  someone who "excelled at playing strong-willed, independent-minded women; she herself was one, and she paid a higher price for her artistic ambition and personal freedom than did any other movie star." The article goes further into her history and the parts she played, but also lets us know that Ingrid will be celebrated at a few venues, which is the news I would like to share with everyone today.

Here are some events happening, celebrating the life and films of Ingrid Bergman. If you can attend any of these, please tweet any photos, videos or links to me @alexis_morrell on Twitter. I will retweet and post here, hashtag #IngridBergman and/or #IngridBergmanFilms. You can also share them on the Facebook Page: Ingrid Bergman Life and Films .


Retrospective at MOMA NYC Aug. 29-Sept. 10 called: Ingrid Bergman: A Centennial Celebration. "August 29 marks the 100th anniversary of Ingrid Bergman’s birth, an occasion MoMA will observe with a selection of films from her 50-year career—as chosen and, where possible, introduced by her children Pia Lindstrom, Roberto Rossellini, Jr., Isabella Rossellini, and Isotta Ingrid Rossellini..." To learn more about the exhibit and events, please visit: https://www.moma.org/visit/calendar/films/1592

BAMcinématek retrospective from September 12—29, 2015: BAM presents a stage and screen salute

to one of the most iconic actresses of the 20th century. For more information, please visit: http://www.bam.org/film/2015/ingrid-bergman

AFI Cultural Center Screenings: Throughout the months of August and September, AFI Cinemas in Silver Spring Maryland will be having screenings of Ingrid Bergman films. Check out showtimes and where to get tickets here: https://silver.afi.com/Browsing/EventsAndExperiences/EventDetails/0000000004

I will post more as I hear of them! 

9 Moments From Ingrid Bergman on her 99th Birthday

Aside from all the moments in Ingrid's work, there are a few that come to mind that are a bit out of the ordinary. This list changes, but I thought I'd give 9 of them to you on her 99th birthday!

9. The champagne scene from "Anastasia." Because all they serve there is champagne.

8. The dancing scene from "Cactus Flower." The film is scored by Johnny Williams (aka John Williams) and why aren't we still doing these moves? I am. I'm still doing these moves.

7. The patriotism scene from "Notorious." I've used this line too many times. It's fantastic, especially after a night of drinking and driving.

6. The bed scene from "Indiscreet." "When Harry Met Sally" totally stole this technique from Stanley Donen, but I'm not complaining. It's sexy, funny and WORKS.

5. The Chopin scene from "Autumn Sonata." This one isn't funny, but it's one of the most moving scenes in her work. Liv Ullmann, Ingmar Bergman and Ingrid Bergman all in the same room, plus Ingrid shows off how she can tickle the ivories. 

4. The dream sequence from "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde." This is a colorized version, which normally I'm not a fan of, but in this case, it makes it more terrifying and creepy. Ivy is a hot mess, and I think that's great.   

3. The piano scene from "Intermezzo." Women can play piano faster than men can play violin. Also, never hire a hot piano teacher because she will steal your husband and your children will love her more.

2. The dancing scene from "Indiscreet." Cary Grant hopping around like an idiot and Ingrid pretending to be mad at him. Two words: Gold dress. 

1. The psychotic break scene from "Gaslight." You know you've earned your Oscar when they coin a phrase after your performance, and I'm not just "gaslighting" you about this one.  

Happy Birthday Ingrid Bergman!

Today marks the 99th birthday for our beloved Ingrid Bergman! It also is the 32nd anniversary of her death. That's right, if this is your first time reading one of my birthday posts, fun fact: Ingrid Bergman died on her 67th birthday.

Ingrid's life was one filled with as much drama as the parts she played on the screen. Her mother died when she was 3, her father died when she was 12 and her aunt died in Ingrid's arms 6 months following. She worked hard for her dreams. She studied theater, piano and singing and acting was always her calling. She was a beauty who knew how to work the system.

The drama didn't end there. She had a baby when she was 23 and was married to a dentist who followed her to Hollywood when her career took off and made her a star. She had affairs with powerful men, including Victor Fleming (75 years ago... You know, the guy who directed "The Wizard of Oz" and "Gone with the Wind" in the same year), Robert Capa (the guy who took those famous WWII Normandy photos and later died because he stepped on a land mine) and later she would end her marriage with Peter Lindstrom by fleeing the states for Italy with Roberto Rossellini.

She was declared "Persona Non Grata" on the US Senate floor and wouldn't return to the States until after a decade.

Her work spoke for itself and for her. It lives on, thankfully, and though her full-circle time on this earth expired, her films immortalized those beautiful moments on screen.

Personally, I feel Ingrid Bergman has been a humanized star. She is someone I've watched time and again bring life to the screen and she has always inspired me to follow my ambitions and dreams.

Today, I celebrate the life and work of Ingrid Bergman, though I carry her in my head and heart everyday to utilize part of her path to guide my own.

The world made a better place thanks to Ingrid's work, especially the cinematic world.

Happy Birthday, Ingrid!

"Casablanca" Screening TONIGHT!

Tonight, in 20 cities, "Casablanca" will screen on the silver screen!
I just obtained my FREE pass for the Los Angeles screening and can't wait to go!

Find out which cities are screening and get your free pass HERE!

TCM "Casablanca" Screenings in March!

On March 4th, TCM is bringing "Casablanca" back to the silver screen. If you haven't seen it that way, see it. It's amazing. Totally made for the big screen (because of course it was) and it will make your heart pound right out of your chest. The tears will stream out of your eyes. You will probably need a gin fizz or something fun afterwards.
Ten of the cities have been named:

CHICAGO • PHILADELPHIA • SAN FRANCISCO • BOSTON • WASHINGTON, DC

ATLANTA • DETROIT • SEATTLE • MIAMI • DENVER

You can go to the TCM 20th Anniversary site and vote for the next ten cities. Vote for where you can see the film!

Voting ends Feb 18th.

Ingrid On Netflix

Some of Ingrid Bergman's films can now be watched instantly on Netflix Instant Watch!
"The Inn of the Sixth Happiness"
was recently added to a wonderful collection of films. They used to have more of her films up, but I guess they're in a cycle. Anyway, keep an eye out for movies trickling into the streaming network, but until then, watch this one!

Autumn is the Time For Bergman

I recently had a revelation that I haven't posted her in a long time and that I would like to attempt to get back in to Bergman blogging.

I just wrote a post on my blog, Alexis Morrell Comedy, about Ingrid Bergman and the film "Autumn Sonata."

I'd like it to be available to everyone here as well, so here is a link: "Autumn Sonata"

I feel badly for not continuing my work here. I have been in graduate school and then have been working in film since. I guess I have to, like Ingrid, follow my dreams.

I did visit the TCM Film Festival this past year, I also thought about Ingrid on her birth/death day and have been longing to write to you all once again.

If you went to the TCMFF, please feel free to post comments and thoughts! I hope that I can figure out a way to go again this year. I have lost my status as a student, so those passes are no longer at my disposal... Official first world problems.

2014 Ford Fiesta Movement

Hello Everyone!

I'm sorry I haven't posted in a very long time... I am wrapping up my final semester at USC School of Cinematic Arts and I am involved in a bunch of projects... Not leaving me much time to write about Ingrid Bergman too much.
I plan on attending the 2013 TCM Film Festival and hope that you will too! It's always fun and generally there's one or two Ingrid Bergman films... Let's hope it happens again!

I am writing this post because I am applying to be a part of the "Ford Fiesta Movement" again! Ford gives out 100 cars for 8 months to people who are film savvy, creative and have a web presence. I did this in 2009 and would love the chance to do it again!

Here is my video... If you like it, please "like" it on Youtube and Subscribe!



I also have a Facebook Page for it: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ford-Fiesta-Movement-Alexis-Page-/66806812366

You can also follow me on Twitter @alexis_morrell
And on Instagram @lex112884

Thank you for reading!
-Alexis

Happy Birthday and RIP Ingrid Bergman

30 years ago, today, Ingrid Bergman passed away from cancer.
97 years ago, today, Ingrid Bergman was born in Sweden.

A full circle life that was, luckily, caught on camera and immortalized for everyone, including those of us who weren't around during her lifespan.

A letter:

Dear Ingrid Bergman,

Thank you for existing. Your 67 years on this earth were filled with very public joys and pains. You made films with some of the most historically famous filmmakers of all time; Hitchcock, Jack Cardiff, Roberto Rossellini, Victor Fleming, George Cukor, Michael Curtiz, among others. You worked with some of the most recognizable faces in the "Golden Days" of the industry; Gregory Peck, Cary Grant, Lana Turner, Spencer Tracy, Joseph Cotton, Liza Manelli, Mel Ferrer, Anthony Perkins, Yves Montand, Humphrey Bogart, Claude Rains and many more. If you showed this resume to anyone, they'd faint.

We, your fans, are glad that you existed. We now have the technology and capability to watch you on Netflix, pop in a DVD and see your films or buy VHS copies of hard to find movies from amazon.com. Longtailing is a wonderful thing. You weren't here to witness the internet... Probably in your best interest.

Your humanity was one of the first revealed to the public. You made some choices in life that remind us that no one in infallible and people have to live with their decisions. None of us care. We all love you.

I personally am grateful for your existence because I am trying to work in the film/TV industry and having you as a guiding light is always an inspiration. It sounds crazy, but you've helped me over the years and always have given me an excuse to write, laugh and cry. Thank you for this.

Happy Birthday Ingrid. You are a shining star that forever burns on celluloid.

TCM's "Summer Under The Stars" Ingrid Bergman Day August 29th

Just like previous summers, Turner Classic Movies will be hosting their annual Summer Under The Stars instillation. 

On August 29th, they will be screening Ingrid Bergman films from 6am - around 3am the next day. As most of you know, that is Ingrid's birthday and the day she died. 

So, if you're lucky enough to have cable and TCM, you will be able to call into work and glue yourself to the television for the following films (Eastern Standar Time): 

6:00am -- Adam Had Four Sons (1941)

7:45am -- Rage In Heaven (1941)

9:30am -- Saratoga Trunk (1945)

12:00pm -- Under Capricorn (1949)

2:00pm -- Stromboli (1950)

4:00pm -- Europa '51 (1951)

6:00pm -- Gaslight (1944) 

8:00pm -- Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1941)

10:00pm -- Casablanca (1942) 

12:00am -- Joan Of Arc (1948) 

2:30am -- Elena And Her Men (1956) 

4:15am -- Autumn Sonata (1978)

This arrangement shows a variety in the films she made. The various directors she worked with and styles they all used. 

It's interesting that of the three Hitchcock films Ingrid starred in, Under Capricorn was chosen. The film itself wasn't a hit and it is lacking in some of the plot points, but if you're looking for innovation and risk taking it doesn't get much better than that...

...Jack Cardiff behind the camera, people falling backwards from a puzzle-like table just to pull a dolly holding a giant technicolor camera... It's full of trivia. Also- for about 5 minutes, Ingrid talks like a drunk, Irish woman. Pretty great. 

Be sure to set your DVR to the appropriate times... TCM only functions on Eastern Standard Time, so sometimes it can throw other timezones for a loop. 

Be sure to comment or leave reactions if you like on the blog, the facebook page or on twitter! 

2012 Turner Classic Film Festival

I, once again, attended my favorite event in Los Angeles, the Turner Classic Movies Film Festival.

This year, the festival had a bit of rain but it didn't dampen the spirits of the classic film fans. The festival had a multitude of options and though I could not make it to everything they had or even everything I wanted to see, I still had a wonderful time.

The Turner Classic Film banner that hangs over the Kodak Theater on Hollywood Blvd.

The first film I saw was the Howard Hawks, Cary Grant and Katharine Hepburn team in Bringing Up Baby. This film is one of my all time favorites, so seeing it on the big screen, like it aught to be seen was such a thrill. If you get the chance, see it this way. The already hilarious and well plotted scenes open up more for the eye. The film was there as part of an "architecture in film" exhibition. Truly a delight.

Robert Osbourne and Stanely Donen in the Egyptian Theater 

My film festivities were put on a slight hold for Thursday and Friday due to school and my family was in town. I unfortunately couldn't be in three places at once, so I missed Young Frankenstein and the Q&A with my hero, Mel Brooks. I hope that someone will screen this movie on the big screen soon, I'm dying to see it. Maybe Cinespia at Hollywood forever might do it, who knows?

On Saturday, a schoolmate gave me his matinee pass so I could take my sister to the festival. She had never been and she's not normally a huge black&white/classic film fan, but I convinced her that Casablanca was going to be worth the venture and that it would mean a lot to me if she would go. Well, we had such a blast! I don't know if I've been that happy in a long time. I was in my favorite place, watching Ingrid Bergman in a 70th Anniversary restored edition of the film and the host was Leonard Maltin. We sat in Grauman's and she told me that she was having a great time. I could have died right there. I was welling up with tears, tears of joy, but it was such a sincere and fantastic memory.

My beautiful sister, Erin, waits in line with me for "Casablanca"

In the lobby at Grauman's they had dresses and costume gowns in glass cases from various films. Here are some photos of the dresses. Just another, new added touch to the TCM Film Fest a much appreciated bit of history and it totally brings the films to life.

The Gowns and Costumes that were on display and a photo of my sister at #TCMFF

After my family flew back to the east coast, I luckily didn't have to worry about post visit blues. Sunday, I decided to fill my dance card with movie after movie. I started with The Black Narcissist, starring Deborah Kerr and cinematography by Jack Cardiff. I had never seen the film and it was spectacular on the big screen. Thelma Schoonmaker, Martin Scorsese's editor and widow of the film's director, Michael Powell, talked after the film. It was wonderful to hear her talk about her husband, the film and her work.

Robert Osbourne claps for the director of "Charade," Stanley Donen

Stanley Donen (left), Ingrid Bergman and an unnamed hair stylist  on the set of "Indiscreet"

I then made my way to Charade, Stanley Donen's comedic film starring Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn. I could have melted into the seat in the Egyptian theater. I love Stanley Donen films... Singin' In the Rain, Two For the Road and of course, Indiscreet. He is the type of director I'd like to be. His stories incorporate music, dancing, comedy, drama and life. So well done. I've met him once and heard him talk several times now, he's an inspiration. Charade was divine, as always. I'm now on an Audrey Hepburn bender, trying to watch everything in her canon. It's an enjoyable adventure, I advise doing it.

Robert Osbourne welcomes director Stanley Donen

After Charade and some California Pizza Kitchen to go (If you go to this film festival, know where the restaurants are... You can hit them up before going to the next film. Oh! And always have cash, the popcorn people at the Egyptian don't do plastic!), I went to the screening of The Pink Panther. I had never seen this film (I know, I know...) and I loved it. Blake Edwards didn't have to work very hard for my attention. I'm a huge fan of Breakfast At Tiffany's, which I saw last year when Julie Andrews spoke after the film... and The Pink Panther was a wonderful addition to my comedy quiver. I plan on watching Return of the Pink Panther soon because I've heard it's the best and I felt like the first one had a huge set up and not a lot of Peter Sellers. I'd like to see more of him.

Robert Osbourne interviews Robert Wagner from "The Pink Panther"

I was going to stay at the festival for another film, but I was too exhausted. I had planned on springing some cash on Annie Hall or Auntie Mame, but decided to go buy some DVD's at Amoeba Records instead. I bought Charade, Two For the Road and Breakfast At Tiffany's. Worth the buy.

I plan on going again next year. I hope that USC SCA gets the passes again (though I wish they were classic badges like the first year and not matinee, but I can't look a gift horse in the mouth). I will be in school for another year, so it's one sheer advantage!

 Audrey Hepburn's gown from Sabrina at Club TCM

 The Club TCM bar 

 Club TCM panel area

Inside the Roosevelt during the TCM Film Festival

The famous Roosevelt Hotel where Club TCM is stationed

If you were at the festival or have any stories to share, please feel free to comment or tweet at me @alexis_morrell I'd love to hear it!

AFI and Ingrid Bergman Honor Orson Welles:

Here's a groovy speech by Ingrid at AFI's honoring of Orson Welles. She looks like she's ready to dance at the discotech right after the show. Enjoy!

1973 Merv Griffin Cannes Film Festival Interview with Ingrid Bergman

Here is a really fantastic interview with Ingrid during the 1973 Cannes Film Festival. She looks gorgeous and her answers are so wonderful. What an inspiration!

Retrobites CBC Interviews with Ingrid Bergman

I recently found some interviews on Youtube of Ingrid Bergman. They are from the CBC as part of their "Retrobites" series.
They are just another wonderful window into Ingrid's life and work. Thank you to CBC for posting!

Another Chance to See "Casablanca"

If you're in the states, there's another chance to see Casablanca this Thursday!
(Click on the image below for ticket information and more general information.)

If you attend the screening or have any comments/posts about the quality of the new digital projection, let us know! It would be great to hear any stories about screenings or your personal Casablanca tales.

I will post about TCM and my Casablanca experience soon as well as some tid bits about Julie Andrews and Stanley Donen!

TCM Film Festival 2012

Hello Everyone-

I hope you're having a wonderful spring!

I have been going to screenings at the TCM Film Festival, once again... Just returned from the screening of Casablanca at Grauman's Chinese Theater. It was the 70th Anniversary renovated edition. I'll definitely post about the festival and the screenings as soon as I finish attending!

If you're at the Festival, please post a comment or tweet at me @alexis_morrell on twitter.

You can also follow the festival @tcmfilmfest

"Here's looking at you kid..."

Casablanca Part 2: Lost in Morocco

Another post about Casablanca's screenings on Wed...

I received an email from another devout Classic Film/Ingrid fan, Geoff Renstrom, asking to promote the screenings of Casablanca... Here's the note. Be sure to see the film and visit their website!

"Hello,

Plan on a night filled with suspense, intrigue romance, and fantastic lines. That’s right; Casablanca is headed back to the big screen for a 70^thanniversary celebration. Join your favorite characters Rick and Ilsa for this timeless classic, a part of cinema history.

NCM Fathom, Turner Classic Movies, and Warner Bros are coming together again to present Turner Classic Movies Presents Casablanca 70th Anniversary Event in select movie theaters nationwide on Wednesday, March 21st at 7:00PM (local time).

The event will begin with Turner Classic Movies host Robert Osborne taking audiences behind the scenes of this epic love story in a special original production showcasing stories from those who were on set and those who simply admire this timeless classic. Audiences will then be able to see again on the silver screen this beautiful and timeless classic.

We hope you’ll spread the word about this fantastic event by sharing information about Turner Classic Movies Presents Casablanca 70th Anniversary Event with your readers through mediums such as blog posts, newsletters, Facebook and Twitter. For more downloadable tools and additional details about Casablanca, including information on participating movie theaters and tickets, visit www.fathomevents.com

Please let us know if we can provide any other information to facilitate your outreach. Thank you for your support.

----

Geoff Renstrom

Pure Brand Communications"

The website holds details about tickets, contests, prizes and other Casablanca themed fun! Be sure to check it out and report back to the blog!

Can't wait to hear about all of your movie adventures and I'll hopefully have time to post about mine! :)

Casablanca 70th Anniversary Celebrations!

Hi everyone!
Sorry it's been so long since I last posted. My life has been going in a fantastic direction lately and I've been completely overwhelmed with work (Graduate school, filmmaking, writing, and watching!)



I'm sure some of you have receieved updates from TCM about the 70th anniversary screenings of Casablanca this week...

"The quintessential Hollywood love story returns to the big screen this spring as Turner Classic Movies Presents Casablanca 70th Anniversary Event on Wednesday, March 21, at 7 pm local time, with special matinees in select theaters. Movie audiences in theaters nationwide will be able to experience the time-honored classic in a stunning digital presentation by NCM Fathom Events, Turner Classic Movies (TCM) and Warner Home Video. The event will be introduced by TCM host Robert Osborne who will discuss Casablanca's enduring legacy and reveal some of its fascinating behind-the-scenes stories. Casablancastarred Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman and Paul Henreid and became one of the most romantic films in the history of cinema. It won three Academy Awards in 1944 including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Screenplay.

Tickets for Turner Classic Movies Presents Casablanca 70th Anniversary Event are available at participating theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com. The event will be broadcast to nearly 500 select movie theaters across the country through NCM's exclusive Digital Broadcast Network. For a complete list of theater locations and prices, visit the NCM Fathom website (theaters and participants are subject to change).

Movie critic Leonard Maltin calls Casablanca "the best Hollywood movie of all time." The American Film Institute (AFI) voted it the screen's greatest love story and the No. 3 film of all time. The film's characters, dialogue and music have all become iconic in Hollywood movie history.

"There are few things more thrilling for movie lovers than being able to experience a true classic like Casablanca the way it was originally intended: on the big screen," said Dennis Adamovich, senior vice president of brand and digital activation for TCM, TNT and TBS. "We're proud to take part in this exciting event as we extend the magic of Turner Classic Movies to theaters across the country."

Casablanca: easy to enter, but much harder to leave, especially if you're wanted by the Nazis. Such a man is Resistance leader Victor Laszlo (Paul Henreid), whose only hope is Rick Blaine (Bogart), a cynical American who sticks his neck out for no one - especially Victor's wife Ilsa (Bergman), the ex-lover who broke his heart. Ilsa offers herself in exchange for Laszlo's transport out of the country and bitter Rick must decide what counts more - personal happiness or countless lives hanging in the balance.

"Like many, I have fond memories of watching Casablanca with my family," said Shelly Maxwell, executive vice president of Fathom Events. "Fans of this timeless cinematic treasure won't want to miss this one-time opportunity to experience Casablanca on the big screen once again as Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman take us back to the golden age of Hollywood."

Turner Classic Movies Presents Casablanca 70th Anniversary Event is the third recent classic anniversary event presented in theaters by NCM Fathom Events including the 70th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz and 50th anniversary of West Side Story.

Warner Home Video will release Casablanca 70th Anniversary Edition on March 27 featuring a 3-Disc limited and numbered gift set including the remastered feature on both Blu-ray and DVD with more than 14 hours of bonus material. The keepsake box also includes a compilation of three comprehensive feature length documentaries, a hard-cover 62-page book with never-before-seen on-set photography, sketches and production history, a reproduction of the original 1942 French theatrical poster as well as a collectible set of drink coasters."

I'm not sure why it's happening right now, since we all know that it premiered in November and January of 1942 and 1943... But... We'll take it, right?

If you can make it, be sure to comment on the blog! It would be great to hear about everyone's adventures and experiences...

NYTimes Article About "Casablanca" : 1943

I stumbled upon this article about Casablanca and Ingrid's relationship to Hollywood. It's a very interesting article and since it's during WWII and about a movie that would change cinematic and parts of general history, I think it's worth reading.

Here is a link to the NYTimes site and if you can't access it, here it is (as a quote, I DO NOT OWN THIS MATERIAL):

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New York Times Article Link

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December 26, 1943

'CASABLANCA'

Ingrid Bergman: In, but Not of, Hollywood

By The New York Times

HOLLYWOOD — "Ingrid Bergman is the realest thing in these diggings," said an ordinarily caustic Hollywood columnist. The first time you see her you understand the reason for his description of her. She has brought into this capital of artificiality the simplicity and charm of her native Sweden. Unpainted fingernails, skin that doesn't look like icing on a cake, a natural manner, unpretentious clothes - these usual things make her unusual among Hollywood stars. Miss Bergman's career is marked by no publicity escapades. No stories of outbursts of artistic temperament are told about her. She is rarely seen in those select night clubs where other screen celebrities parade like manikins at a fashion show. The young doctor to whom she was married before she came here is still her husband and from time to time she brings her 5-year-old daughter Pia on the lot with her. Despite her success she remains the unassuming, serious-minded young woman she was when, after much hesitation, she made up her mind to come to this country.

Not long after she arrived, the studio wanted to make some stills of her and the photographer suggested that she raise her skirt ''just a trifle.'' She looked at him, smiled, and remarked: ''But I came here to act, not to dance.'' Some months ago Madame Chiang Kai-shek visited the studio where Miss Bergman was working. All the other stars were dolled up in their best to be presented to the first lady of China. Miss Bergman appeared hatless, dressed in a tailored suit and wearing broad, flat-heeled shoes.

She is not beautiful in the Hollywood sense of the word. The glamour which surrounds her is the glamour of youth and health. Her charm is not dependent upon beauticians and her attractive face would serve better as an ad for a tonic than as one for a cosmetic. It has been used for neither, for she does not believe in endorsing any products.

No one would pick her out as a movie queen. She has stood unrecognized for half an hour waiting on line to see one of her own pictures.

Miss Bergman was working on her new film when, between shots, she posed for me. As Paula in a screen version of ''Angel Street,'' called now ''Gaslight,'' she was dressed in a tight-fitting bustled gown of the Seventies. Her long blond hair fell about her shoulders from beneath a tiny sailor hat. It was surprising how little make-up she had on. Her face is round, her cheek bones well-formed. No lipstick altered the natural contour of her mouth and scant mascara reinforced the long lashes which shade her clear blue eyes. There was none of that unreal look about her which so many actresses feel it is necessary to put on before the camera.

Apart from her appearance, what makes her distinctive is her outlook upon life. About her is none of the gaiety ordinarily associated with this place. Although she believes that her private life is no concern of the public, she had not been posing for me long before she told me about her father, who was a photographer and also an artist.

''He always wanted to make a painting of me,'' she said, ''but he never could get me to pose long enough. I was too restless. All I have by him is a sketch he made when I did not know what he was doing. I am sorry now, but I am one of those people who simply can't sit down and do nothing.

''Even now as I am sitting here I am beginning to worry about my next scene and wondering if I shall know my lines. That is the only thing I don't like about acting: the constant dread I have of forgetting my part. I am what you call a quick study and I can learn my lines under the most trying circumstances. I trained myself to do this when I was a child.

''After my father and mother died, they relatives with whom I lived did not want me to become an actress, but I was constantly studying poems and reciting them for myself in my own room. So that they would not know what I was doing, I kept a phonograph going to drown out my voice.

''Would you mind if I just ran over a few pages of my next scene?'' she asked and so saying she began reading them, her full lips moving as she did so.

In a short time she laid the script aside. It was then I asked what kind of parts she liked the best.

''Serious ones,'' she replied, raising her naturally arched eyebrows. She had been posing in profile. Now, she turned her face toward me as she answered my question.

''Although people seemed to like me in 'Casablanca,' I cared for myself less in that part than in the serious roles I have played. It was for this reason that I was so delighted when, after I saw Mr. Hemingway, he wanted me to play Maria in 'For Whom the Bell Tolls.'

''But you must not forget,'' she said, ''that I come from Sweden and we Swedes are very different from Americans. By nature we are a more serious-minded people. Perhaps it is the ruggedness of the country and the rigors of our climate that make us so. We are not frivolous. The lighter side of life is less important. We even take our pleasures gravely.

''This sober approach to life is evident in all our arts. Our paintings have comparatively little light-heartedness in them and the sunlight they depict is a cold sunlight. One of our most popular authors is that tragic playwright Strindberg whose works never caught on here. I you have ever read his 'Fraulein Julie' you will realize that he does not write the kind of plays that Americans would flock to. Yet I would love to play that part.

''Even our humor is different from yours. There is always a note of fantasy about it. Carl Milles expresses it in some of his sculpture. His quaint dolphins and strange mermen and mermaids are typical of the lighter side of our country and even his dancing girls portray a spirit of meditation.

''Now you understand why I like serious parts better and why my favorite American authors are Hemingway and Steinbeck.''

She went on to compare Hollywood with Rasunda where Swedish films are made. She said that when she came here she just stared about like a ''silly goose,'' although she had been acting in Sweden for some time.

Her first screen appearance took place a quarter of a century ago - she was a year old at the time - when her father made a movie of her birthday party. He continued to take pictures of such parties up to the time of his death when she was 13. She is now doing the same thing for her daughter.

''I always wanted to be an actress,'' she said, ''but my father, who sang well himself, wanted me to be a singer. So to please him I studied singing for three years, but got nowhere. All the time, however, I was acting for my own pleasure. I ransacked the attic for old clothes which I put on while I recited.''

At school in Stockholm her dramatic talent was recognized and when she was 17 she won a scholarship in the Royal Dramatic School. At the end of a year she was on the road to fame and one of her pictures, ''A Woman's Face,'' was voted the best film of 1938 at an international exposition.

Even before, her reputation had spread to this country. Hollywood saw another Garbo in her and tried to lure her here. But the tall young blond actress refused to come. She was doing well, she did not need any more money than she was making and besides she was married to Dr. Lindstrom, then a young dentists. To leave Sweden would mean breaking home ties. It was not until four years ago last April that she arrived here with a nice fat contract.

When she reached Hollywood she realized that she did not fit with its goings-on. She slipped away early from a party given in her honor and went to her room a puzzled young woman.

Notwithstanding all she had heard about the place there were surprises when she started in on her first picture. The extravagances of the studio appalled her. She could not understand the reason for the number of retakes. Buying fresh flowers daily for a scene when paper ones, to her mind, would serve, seemed like throwing money away.

She said nothing and kept much to herself - often a method of becoming unpopular. But strangely enough it did not work that way in her case. People realized that she was shy and strange here and they did not mistake her shyness for standoffishness. When an actress goes to a supermarket and wheels a basketful of provisions up to the checking desk, people are not likely to regard her as upstage.

After she had finished her first picture, ''Intermezzo,'' she went back to Sweden. The next year she returned, followed soon by her husband, who had by then decided to give up dentistry for medicine. They took a small house in Rochester, N.Y., where he attended medical school. Whenever she was not working on a picture or appearing on the stage she flew there. There was but on trouble. Her admirers of both sexes ran her and her husband ragged. They could not even go skating without a gallery.

Ever since she appeared in ''Casablanca,'' Miss Bergman has had an apartment in Beverly Hills where she lives with her daughter. Dr. Lindstrom is an intern in a San Francisco hospital. Nevertheless Miss Bergman is still the housewife and her husband the master of the house.

Like the proverbial busman who goes for a ride on his day off, Miss Bergman goes in for making movies as a hobby. She carries a small movie camera about her and has it near her even when she is working. When I had finished my drawing of her she asked me to pose with it so that she might take a picture. There was something almost childlike about her as she did this.

According to those who have worked with her, she never shows any signs of artistic tantrums. Between shots she can often be seen sitting quietly in her dressing room, reading a novel. She is untiring and seems to radiate a cheerfulness which affects not only her director and fellow actors but also the others at work on the set. Most of ''For Whom the Bell Tolls'' was filmed at an elevation of 8,000 feet. She alone seemed to be unaffected by the altitude. When making an OWI picture in Minnesota she skied to location and laughed at the other members of the company who complained of the cold.

Gregory Ratoff, a hard man to work for, laid aside his boisterous manner when he directed her pictures; he also confessed that at the end of the day he was exhausted while she was still as fresh as when she started. Practically every one of her directors says she is one of the best readers of lines working for the screen and that she is more willing to adopt suggestion than any other star.

Although she accepts criticism and apologizes if she slips on a line, she is more or less set in her ideas about costumes. She refuses to adopt Hollywood's ideas of what she should wear in her pictures, and many a startling gown has been discarded for a simple dress of her own choosing. She is just as positive in her notions concerning make-up and she applies it herself.

''Acting,'' she told me, ''is a hard job which I enjoy. After I have studied my part and get the feel of it, I spend a tremendous amount of time in building up the characterization. I study every sentence, because every work and sentence must add something to the development of the character.

''I work so hard before the camera and on the stage that I have neither the desire nor the energy to act in my private life. There I prefer to be myself and forget all about audiences and look after my family.''