Backdrop preview Little Mo backdrop
Little Mo
7.5

Little Mo (1978)

Sep 05, 1978 2h 30m TV Movie Drama

Biopic about tennis great Maureen Connolly who, as a teenager, was the first woman to win the Grand Slam of Tennis, became world-renowned as "Little Mo," and died of cancer in 1969 at the age of 34.

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Directed by Daniel Haller

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Daniel Haller
Writer
  • John McGreevey
Producer
  • George Sherman

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Little Mo 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 Daniel Haller 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 critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Little Mo took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 150 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 186 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 78 unique compositions.
  • The costume department created over 360 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 1978, when this film was released:
  • Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
  • 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 Little Mo shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Little House, which focuses more on action than character development, Little Mo subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Without Prejudice and Untitled Alvin Ailey Project explore similar territory, Little Mo 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: September 5, 1978
  • Runtime: 2h 30m