Cast
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Jane Powell
as Cindy Kimbell
Farley Granger
as Rick Livingston
Ann Miller
as Lisa Bellmount
S.Z. Sakall
as Papa Schlemmer
Robert Keith
as Judge Gordon Kimbell
Bobby Van
as Ludwig Schlemmer
Billie Burke
as Mrs. Livingston
Fay Wray
as Mrs. Gordon Kimbell
Nat King Cole
as Nat King Cole
Dean Miller
as Mac
William Campbell
as Ted, News Photographer
Brandon Beach
as Party Guest
Leon Alton
as Townsman
Faire Binney
as Customer
Marie Blake
as Customer
Crew
Director
- László Kardos
Writer
- Dorothy Kingsley
- Dorothy Cooper
Producer
- Joe Pasternak
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Small Town Girl represents a fascinating example of Music/Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director László Kardos 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1953, 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 Small Town Girl took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 128 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1953, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Small Town Girl shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Gigli, which focuses more on action than character development, Small Town Girl subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like You Kill Me and Meet the Feebles explore similar territory, Small Town Girl stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 10, 1953
- Runtime: 1h 33m
