Cast
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George Hamilton
as Paul Strand
Mercedes McCambridge
as Sarah Strand
Joan Blondell
as Mollie Hays
Henry Jones
as Ben Hays
Burt Reynolds
as Hoke Adams
Salome Jens
as Angel Baby
Roger Clark
as Sam Wilcox
Dudley Remus
as Otis Finch
R. L. Armstrong
as The Shanty Man
Harry Swoger
as Big Cripple
Eddie Firestone
as Blind Man
Barbara Biggart
as Farm girl
Bert Williams
as The Killer
Victoria Adams
as Ma Brooks
Theodore Lehmann
as Willis Ferguson
Crew
Director
- Paul Wendkos
- Hubert Cornfield
Producer
- Thomas F. Woods
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Angel Baby examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Paul Wendkos brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1961, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Angel Baby took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 152 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1523 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1961, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Angel Baby shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Prayers for Bobby, which focuses more on action than character development, Angel Baby offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Molokai: la isla maldita and Molokai: The Story of Father Damien explore similar territory, Angel Baby stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 14, 1961
- Runtime: 1h 38m
