Curtiz 2020

The film chronicles the life of the pioneering Hungarian Academy Award winner, Michael Curtiz (originally Mihály Kertész), who earned the coveted Best Director Oscar for the iconic romantic drama Casablanca, widely acclaimed by critics as one of the finest films in cinematic history. With an impressive filmography credited to nearly 200 films, Curtiz’s persona was riddled with controversy, marked by traits such as aggression, womanizing, selfishness, and a volatile temperament.

The narrative unfolds during 1942, amid the production of Casablanca, a time when global conflicts were escalating: the attack on Pearl Harbor had ignited American involvement in World War II, and German forces were relentless in their bombing campaigns against Britain. As the shooting progressed, Curtiz found himself in a creative quagmire, repeatedly rewriting the script as time ran out. To exacerbate matters, government authorities appointed a political overseer to the production, pressuring Curtiz to reshape the storyline to better serve wartime propaganda.

In a steadfast quest for artistic integrity, Curtiz resolutely aims for the success of his film, all while grappling with significant personal strife. The peril faced by his sister, who remained in Hungary, coupled with the complexities of his strained relationship with his daughter—who reentered his life after a long absence—added layers of turmoil to the film’s production.

While the film masterfully intertwines dramatized aspects, it draws heavily from real-life events, bolstered by a wealth of anecdotes and firsthand accounts. According to screenwriter Zsuzsanna Bak, approximately 85 percent of the narrative is rooted in original occurrences, offering viewers an insightful glimpse into the turbulent yet fascinating journey of a director who changed Hollywood forever.