As a mom blogger, I’m always on the lookout for films that spark deep conversations and provide valuable lessons, especially as I navigate the complex world of parenting. Recently, I watched Pretty Baby, directed by the acclaimed Louis Malle. This film tackles a very sensitive subject matter—child prostitution—and while it is controversial, I found it manages to deliver a poignant exploration of humanity.
As a mom, I was drawn to this film not just for its reputation but also because of the opportunity it presents to discuss important societal issues with my family. The film’s storyline revolves around E.J. Bellocq, a photographer in New Orleans’ red-light district during 1917, and his relationship with a young girl, Violet, played by Brooke Shields. The complex dynamics in the film opened up avenues for discussing difficult topics that are often skirted around in everyday conversations.
The film was released on November 6, 2020, and has a runtime of 1 hour and 49 minutes. Malle’s sensitive handling of such a taboo subject is noteworthy. I was particularly impressed by the performances; Susan Sarandon’s portrayal of Violet’s mother was both powerful and heartbreaking. The emotional depth from the cast really brought the story to life and made the viewing experience engaging.
However, it’s important to emphasize that this movie is rated R—definitely not suitable for children. Many reviewers, like CDCS, pointed out the iconic nature of the film and that it often sparks intense discussions about its theme. They found the subject matter less shocking than it might seem in today’s context. However, the sensitive nature of the film does require parental discretion.
On the flip side, there were some drawbacks that deserve mentioning. For instance, Ron Stewart highlighted that the film contains cuts that impact certain scenes, notably the bathtub scene, which some felt diminished its overall impact. Additionally, there are reviews expressing discomfort with the depiction of nudity involving a young girl. This is certainly a major point of concern for many viewers and something I believe should be considered carefully by parents when deciding whether to explore the film.
One aspect I appreciated, echoed in judithjmc’s review, is the film’s ability to deliver sensitive topics in a way that encourages dialogue between parents and children. It challenges viewers (and parents) to think critically about serious social issues.
It’s clear that Pretty Baby isn’t a film for everyone, and parents should certainly approach it with caution. While the performances are truly remarkable, and the film does succeed in shining a light on the harsh realities of certain societal issues, the explicit content and emotional weight can be overwhelming.
In conclusion, I’d recommend Pretty Baby for adult viewers, especially those interested in impactful film narratives and history. However, I would advise that parents consider their own comfort level with the topics discussed before watching, perhaps even viewing it first to ensure it’s appropriate for family discussions. Overall, my experience with this film was enriching, despite its heaviness, and it has inspired me to engage in more open discussions about difficult subjects.
In a world where conversations about tough topics are often avoided, Pretty Baby serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing difficult realities with compassion and honesty. I’d give this film a solid 4 stars for its artistic merit and ability to provoke thought, while acknowledging its flaws.
