You Must Remember This

John Clark’s commentary on the lack of memorable romantic films from modern Hollywood made some interesting points, but what version of “Casablanca” did he see (“Question to Hollywood: Where Did Our Love Go?,” Aug. 4)?

Ilsa doesn’t leave Rick “standing in the rain” at the airport because she’s married--on the contrary, she makes it quite clear she wants to stay with him. It’s Rick who sends Ilsa away, so that he can join the underground effort against the Nazis.

“Casablanca” isn’t about extramarital affairs; it’s about the conflict between love and honor, played out with great acting, memorable settings and a classic script. Could Hollywood pull that off today? It would be nice to see someone try.

BONNIE SLOANE

Los Angeles

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The answer to Clark’s question as to who will be the next romantic leading white man is Russell Crowe. And Adrian Paul, if anyone would care to notice him. But why was the field of men and women so limited?

Having mentioned himself that miscegenation is all but gone, why did he exclude such actors as Denzel Washington, Blair Underwood, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Esai Morales? The women he ignored would include Halle Berry, Jennifer Lopez, Joan Chen, Vanessa Williams. The list would not be lacking if Clarke would expand the parameters.

But back to the white guys: I cannot believe I did not see George Clooney’s name even on the list of contenders, much less pretty near the top.

MARIE CAIN

Los Angeles