Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
It is the sleaziest man in the room asking for a verdict and getting a flat one. Ugarte wants approval and settles for trust, and the letters he leaves with Rick drive everything that follows. Fans quote the exchange for its cynical logic: you can rely on someone precisely because they do not like you.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for CasablancaShow the scene
In Rick's club in Casablanca, the small-time crook Ugarte sits down with Rick, who refuses his offer of a drink. Ugarte asks if Rick despises him, and Rick says that if he gave him any thought he probably would. Ugarte defends his trade in exit visas, then reveals he has letters of transit signed by General de Gaulle, which he plans to sell that night. He asks Rick to hold them, saying that because Rick despises him, he is the only man he trusts. Ugarte is then arrested and dies in custody.
Sources (2)
- Springfield! Springfield! transcript: CasablancaUgarte and Rick's table scene in the clubReference checked
- Wikipedia: Casablanca (film)PlotReference checked
Context reviewed
