‘Masterpiece’ romantic drama set during WW2 is free to watch now | Films | Entertainment

One of cinema’s most celebrated masterpieces is now available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer. Renowned for its timeless storytelling, unforgettable performances, and emotional depth, this film continues to captivate audiences decades after its release. It’s a must-see experience that blends drama and romance in a way few movies ever achieve.

Set against the tense and terrifying backdrop of World War 2, it’s a story that also captures the high stakes of the era. With just ten days left to watch for free, don’t miss this rare chance to see a true classic in all its glory, completely free. Here’s why you should watch Casablanca (1942).

What’s the plot?

During the early days of World War 2, nightclub owner Rick Blaine runs Rick’s Café in Casablanca. This cafe has become a sort of haven for refugees seeking to obtain illicit letters that will help them escape to America. Rick is known for his detached demeanour until the sudden arrival of his former lover, Ilsa Lund.

Ilsa arrives with her husband, Victor Laszlo, a renowned rebel who is being pursued by the Germans. Ilsa turns to Rick for help securing the papers they need to escape, forcing him to confront old wounds and make a heart-wrenching choice between love and sacrifice.

Why you should watch?

According to IMDb, Casablanca has 18 awards and 12 nominations, including Best Picture, Best Writing, Screenplay, and Best Director at the Oscars.

The film site has also awarded the movie an impressive 8.5 stars out of 10, whereas on Rotten Tomatoes, Casablanca has an almost perfect score of 99% critics and 95% from the audience.

The critics’ consensus on the tomato-based rating site raved that the classic film is “an undisputed masterpiece and perhaps Hollywood‘s quintessential statement on love and romance. Casablanca has only improved with age, boasting career-defining performances from Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman.”

A top reviewer from Awards Daily, Mark Johnson, agreed with the consensus and commented: “With an incredibly gripping narrative, filled with unforgettable characters and endlessly quotable dialogue. Casablanca is a heart-wrenching and inspiring tale of sacrifice, love, integrity, and the power of patriotism. The greatest movie ever made.”

Keith Garlington from Keith & the Movies said, “Casablanca captures and utilises so many things well. There’s a high level of suspense. There’s a touch of humour. There is a great realisation of wartime tensions. And right in the middle of it all is what may be the best romance in cinema history.”

A fan of the film commented under Warner Bros.’ remake of the trailer in 4K on YouTube and said: “We’re talking about a movie that really moves you deeply. I’ve watched it over 50 times – it’s one of those films you just can’t get enough of! In fact, I even bought it on YouTube on June 16, 2025.”