Product Review: Rock, Pretty Baby Blu-ray
As a mom who values both seeing my kids experience family-friendly films and enjoying a touch of nostalgia myself, I recently decided to give Rock, Pretty Baby a spin. This charming flick from the ‘50s is filled with vibrant music, featuring notable names like Sal Mineo and John Saxon. I hoped this Blu-ray edition would not only entertain my kids but also bring me back to those simpler times.
Pros and Cons
One thing that really stands out about this Blu-ray is the brand new HD master from a 4K scan of the original camera negative. The picture quality was surprisingly sharp, bringing those retro vibes to life in a vibrant way. Additionally, the audio commentary by film historian David Del Valle added depth and context that I appreciated as an adult viewer; it enriched our family movie night with insights about the film’s history.
However, not everything was perfect. One downside I’ve noticed is the mixed opinions about its distribution quality. While some reviewers were thrilled to have the movie on Blu-ray, others expressed concerns about it feeling like a "fuzzy knock-off." I must say, during our viewing, there were a few moments that felt less polished than I expected, which might disappoint families looking for paralleled quality with modern films.
Family Viewing Experience
The movie’s storyline revolves around Jimmy Daley, a high-school senior with dreams of making it in the L.A. music scene. My children were initially drawn in by the energetic musical numbers—16 in total, performed by various artists. They found the storyline cute and relatable—a young dreamer looking to prove himself—though, as a mom, I caught myself wishing for a bit more character development.
Despite the charming performances, especially from Mineo and Saxon, I felt that not all characters were fully fleshed out. The film managed to weave in some wholesome family dynamics, courtesy of Jimmy’s understanding mother, played by Fay Wray. This relatable aspect was delightful and allowed for some good discussions afterward about family support and chasing dreams.
Final Reflections
Considering its NR rating, I felt the film was appropriate for family viewing, although it’s essential to clarify that its pacing and style may not align with today’s fast-paced animations or plots. Some parents may even feel the jokes and scenarios are a bit dated.
In my experience, the conflicts portrayed in Rock, Pretty Baby resonated with us, especially in light of the pressures to conform to parental expectations. The music, despite some feedback claiming it felt lackluster in production, had us tapping our feet and occasionally joining in with sing-alongs, which was a hit with the kids.
In conclusion, while Rock, Pretty Baby has some nostalgic charm, it also has its flaws. I appreciate the efforts made to revitalize this classic, but I would recommend it more for fellow fans of vintage films than as a family film newcomers. It’s a three and a half-star film for our family, pleasantly enjoyable yet marked by a few bumps along the way. If your family has an appreciation for classic cinema, it’s worth adding to your collection, but prepare for a more retro experience.
