Who is the primary protagonist in the film "Casablanca"?

In "Casablanca," the primary protagonist is Rick Blaine, played by Humphrey Bogart. Rick is a complex character who embodies themes of love, sacrifice, and moral ambiguity. As the film's focal point, his actions and decisions drive the narrative forward. He owns a nightclub in Vichy-controlled Casablanca and is depicted as cynical and detached from the political struggle around him. However, his character undergoes significant development as he reunites with Ilsa Lund and finds himself torn between his feelings for her and the larger fight against fascism, represented by her husband Victor Laszlo.

Rick's journey is central to the film's exploration of themes like duty versus desire and personal redemption, making him not just a participant in the story but its emotional heart. His ultimate choice to ensure Ilsa and Victor’s escape showcases his transformation and embodies the film's message about the greater good, underscoring why he stands out as the primary protagonist.