Cast
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Brooke Shields
as Violet
Keith Carradine
as Bellocq
Susan Sarandon
as Hattie
Frances Faye
as Nell
Antonio Fargas
as Professor
Matthew Anton
as Red Top
Diana Scarwid
as Frieda
Barbara Steele
as Josephine
Gerrit Graham
as Highpockets
Don Hood
as Alfred Fuller
Seret Scott
as Flora
Cheryl Markowitz
as Gussie
Susan Manskey
as Fanny
Laura Zimmerman
as Agnes
Miz Mary
as Odette
Crew
Director
- Louis Malle
Producer
- Louis Malle
Reviews
GenerationofSwine
So.... why one star? Because, honestly, it's boring. It kind of does to New Orleans' red-light district what Reds did to John Reed.... sucked all the excitement out of the story in an effort to make it artistic.
It's well acted, but it's weak on plot, weak on story, weak on entertainment.... but, like Reds, it's one of those movies that you have to watch because 41 years after the fact it is still being talked about.
But, to be fair, I guess it's hard to make a movie about someone that takes pictures and make it riveting. After all, E. J. Bellocq wasn't exactly Robert Capa
Jan 12, 2023
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Pretty 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 Louis Malle 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 1978, 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 Pretty Baby took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 165 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 48 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1978, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Pretty 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 American Beauty, which focuses more on action than character development, Pretty Baby offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Ma Belle, My Beauty and The Devil's Rejects explore similar territory, Pretty 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: April 5, 1978
- Runtime: 1h 50m
- Revenue: $5,786,368
