As a mom, I sometimes find it valuable to take a step back and dive into a film that sparks thought and conversation. Recently, I watched Pretty Baby, directed by Louis Malle, which covers a topic many would find unsettling — child prostitution in the early 20th century. Admittedly, I was drawn by the film’s historical context and the promise of beautiful cinematography, elements that are sometimes hard to balance with the weight of its subject matter.
Pretty Baby explores the world of Violet, a 12-year-old girl played by Brooke Shields, living in New Orleans’ red-light district. The film’s cinematography, especially the portrayal of the era’s vibrant setting, is truly stunning. You can feel the weight of history embedded in every frame, and I appreciated how the filmmakers brought this era to life.
However, the topic at hand is undeniably controversial, and opinions on this film can be quite polarized. Some viewers appreciate its artistic take on a disturbing reality, echoing sentiments like those of reviewer Brianna, who notes how moving and thought-provoking the film is. The film’s ability to evoke emotion and deep contemplation certainly aligns with my experience. It’s a story that lingered with me long after the credits rolled.
On the flip side, I found myself grappling with the ethics surrounding the film’s portrayal of nudity and its sensitive themes. The character of Violet oscillates between youthful innocence and situations that could provoke discomfort. This duality sparked conversations among my friends and me, particularly around how society views such depictions today compared to the 1970s when the film was released.
Many reviews mentioned the seamless acting, particularly praising Brooke Shields and Keith Carradine’s performances. I wholeheartedly agree with this aspect. Their portrayals brought depth to their characters, especially as they navigate complex emotions and situations. However, some reviews pointed out that certain key scenes, like the bathtub moment mentioned by Ron Stewart, seemed to be edited awkwardly, leaving viewers wanting more context.
One of the standout features of this Blu-ray release is the brand new HD master. It’s impressive how it brings a vintage film into a contemporary viewing experience, making the visuals breathtakingly clear. Malle’s focus on period-appropriate details doesn’t go unnoticed, and it draws you into the world he created.
Despite the artistic triumph, the film doesn’t shy from presenting a subject that can feel harsh and, at times, exploitative. This does make Pretty Baby challenging to recommend without caveats. A user review I encountered expressed concern regarding the film’s portrayal of youth and nudity, echoing a critical perspective that many parents might share. It serves as a reminder of the cultural context in which some films are made and the resulting implications that resonate even today.
Overall, I’d rate this film as a 4 out of 5 stars. It met my expectations in terms of artistry and depth but also left me contemplating the moral questions it raises. It’s a film that invites discussion rather than easy viewing. For parents like me, who appreciate films with a historical backbone but are cautious about the messages they send, Pretty Baby provides a rich, albeit troubling, landscape to explore.
If you’re considering whether to see or stream it, I’d recommend viewing it thoughtfully and perhaps discussing it afterward with friends or partners to digest the multiple layers it presents. Just be aware that it’s not an easy watch, but it offers a poignant reflection on society and its historical complexities.
