Tuesday, April 11, 2023

'Casablanca'-- A Talented Cast: Wilson and Page

SAM

Played by Dooley Wilson

Unquestionably one of the most famous supporting characters any actor has played on the big screen:  That's one way to describe the role of Sam "the Rabbit," ably filled by Wilson, who was in fact, not a pianist, but a drummer.

He couldn't play the piano at all, but achieved immortality with his rendition of "As Time Goes By."

Already in his fifties when he starred in "Casablanca," Wilson was about to quit acting when he got the role.

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ANNINA BRANDEL

Played by Joy Page

Perhaps the only actor younger than Labeau to appear in the film, Page was just 17 when she found her fame in the movie.

And this came about at least partially because she was the stepdaughter of studio chief Jack Warner.

Still, her exotic beauty was perfect for her part of the young Bulgarian refugee whose virtue is saved after Rick intervenes when Captain Renault suggests he will arrange safe passage of Brandel and her husband if she will sleep with him.

Well, Rick couldn't have this so fixed it where her husband won enough money gambling where she wouldn't have to.

Sorry Renault.  --Cooter


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