Who Said “Play It Sam”: A Closer Look at the Misquoted Line
The iconic line, “Play it again, Sam,” is often attributed to the classic 1942 film “Casablanca.” However, if you’re a true fan of the movie, you would know that the line was never actually spoken. In fact, the actual quote is, “Play it, Sam. Play ‘As Time Goes By.'”
The movie “Casablanca,” directed Michael Curtiz and starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, has become a cultural phenomenon over the years. It has been referenced and parodied countless times, solidifying its place in cinematic history. Yet, the misquote of this famous line has been perpetuated through the years, leading many to believe that it was indeed spoken in the film.
The misquote can be traced back to Woody Allen’s 1972 film, “Play It Again, Sam,” where the phrase was used repeatedly. This film, which pays homage to “Casablanca,” helped solidify the incorrect version in popular culture. Since then, the misquote has taken on a life of its own, often finding its way into various references, parodies, and even everyday conversation.
FAQs:
1. Who said “Play it again, Sam”?
The line “Play it again, Sam” was never actually spoken in the film “Casablanca.” The closest line to this is “Play it, Sam. Play ‘As Time Goes By.'” However, the misquote has become widely known and associated with the film.
2. Why is the line misquoted so often?
The misquote can be attributed to Woody Allen’s film “Play It Again, Sam,” where it was used repeatedly. This popularized the incorrect version and led to its widespread use and acceptance.
3. What is the correct quote from “Casablanca”?
The correct quote from the film is “Play it, Sam. Play ‘As Time Goes By.'” This line is spoken the character Ilsa Lund, played Ingrid Bergman, to the pianist Sam, played Dooley Wilson.
4. How did the misquote become so popular?
The misquote gained popularity due to its use in Woody Allen’s film “Play It Again, Sam” and subsequent references in popular culture. It has become ingrained in the collective memory, despite not being an accurate representation of the original line.
5. Are there any other famous misquotes from “Casablanca”?
While the misquote of “Play it again, Sam” is the most well-known, there are a few other lines that are often misquoted. For example, the line “Here’s looking at you, kid” is often wrongly quoted as “Here’s looking at you, kid.”
6. Why is “Casablanca” considered a classic?
“Casablanca” is considered a classic due to its timeless story, memorable performances, and iconic dialogue. It is regarded as one of the greatest films of all time and has had a significant impact on popular culture.
7. Is “Casablanca” worth watching despite the misquote?
Absolutely! “Casablanca” is a must-watch for any film enthusiast. It offers a compelling storyline set against the backdrop of World War II, exceptional performances, and unforgettable moments. The misquote should not deter anyone from experiencing this cinematic masterpiece.
In conclusion, the misquote of “Play it again, Sam” has become deeply ingrained in popular culture, thanks to its use in Woody Allen’s film “Play It Again, Sam.” However, the correct quote from “Casablanca” is “Play it, Sam. Play ‘As Time Goes By.'” Regardless of the misquote, “Casablanca” remains a timeless classic that deserves its place in cinematic history.