As a mom constantly on the lookout for engaging movies to enjoy with my kids, I recently came across the classic film Cry-Baby, directed by the iconic John Waters. Filled with humor and a nostalgic rockabilly vibe, this film seemed perfect for a family movie night. With a captivating plot starring Johnny Depp as the unforgettable Wade “Cry-Baby” Walker, I was curious to see if it would resonate with my kids as much as it did with me when I first watched it years ago.
The film is set in 1954, a time when Eisenhower was president and rock ‘n’ roll was king. It’s a fun, quirky musical comedy that parodies the juvenile delinquent genre, similar to films like Grease. The story revolves around Cry-Baby’s irresistible charm and ability to invoke empathy with just a single tear, which totally captivated all the girls, especially Allison Vernon-Williams, played by Amy Locane. I was excited to see how the unique, high-energy storyline would play out in our home!
The movie’s standout features include its vibrant music and clever humor, elements that other reviewers have highlighted as major positives. Many parents, like Vanessa and Zyleah Gordon, express a strong affection for the film, calling it essential viewing and praising Depp’s performance. I completely agree with them; Johnny Depp truly brought the character to life, engaging both my children and me as we watched. The music, in particular, is worth mentioning—it’s infectious and made it impossible not to tap our feet along with the rhythms.
However, not everything about Cry-Baby was perfect. While the kids enjoyed it, there were moments where the plot felt slightly disjointed and the pacing a bit uneven. Some scenes may seem a tad corny, and I can fully understand why a few viewers found parts of the narrative challenging to follow, as echoed in the reviews I came across. Lisa Calhoun mentioned this sentiment, referring to it as "comedy at its finest" but also noting the odd pacing. I would echo this—while the film successfully entertains, I can see how it might leave some younger viewers scratching their heads.
On the technical side, the quality of the Blu-ray was impressive. The film has been restored beautifully in 4k with HDR/Dolby Vision, looking crisp and engaging on our screen. It held up remarkably well even when watched repeatedly, which is a boon in a household where certain movies tend to be replayed numerous times! I can confidently say that it lived up to my expectations in this regard.
One bonus is that it’s PG-13, so it provides an excellent opportunity for me as a parent to introduce my kids to some classic cinema without going beyond the boundaries of suitability. However, I did appreciate that many of the insights shared in the new audio commentary and featurettes added depth to our viewing experience, enhancing our understanding of the film’s unique history.
In conclusion, I would highly recommend Cry-Baby for families looking to add a dose of nostalgia and fun to their movie nights. The performances, particularly Depp’s, and the upbeat soundtrack make it a delightful viewing experience, even if some aspects of the plot leave a little to be desired. Overall, it’s a classic that can provide some genuine family fun, perfect for relaxing together as a family. If you’re seeking an offbeat, classic musical comedy to enjoy with your kids, grab a copy of Cry-Baby—trust me, you won’t regret it!
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