Angel

Set in the seedy underbelly of Hollywood, Angel is a gritty drama from 1983 that establishes a firm footing in the genre of 'coming-of-age' narratives. It explores paradoxical elements of innocence and corruption, violence and survival, all knitted together with impressive storytelling. This American neo-noir crime thriller is directed by Robert Vincent O'Neill and features an ensemble cast including Cliff Gorman, Susan Tyrrell and Dick Shawn.

The movie unravels the complex narrative of a 15-year-old teenager named Molly, using the screen name Angel. Perfectly outlined, Angel is not your average teenager, but one faced with exceptional circumstances. The film employs elements of exploitation cinema to portray her as a high school honor student by day who transforms into a Hollywood Boulevard prostitute by night.

Portrayed by Donna Wilkes, Angel's character is thoughtfully crafted with intricate detail. Despite her circumstances, she is no victim; instead, she is a survivor overcoming the hardships that life throws at her. Dealing with issues of child abandonment, the movie takes us through the ups and downs of Angel's life as she grapples with the tough reality of her existence while trying to sustain her dreams and innocence.

Highlighting the counterpoint to Angel's life are the eccentric and colorful characters she meets on Hollywood Boulevard. Cliff Gorman, in an unforgettable performance, plays a street-smart police officer, Lieutenant Andrews, who looks out for Angel amidst the chaos. He is the symbol of the law, embodying its beauty and ugliness in equal measure, reflecting the brutal realities and the thin line between justice and crime.

In contrast, Susan Tyrrell portrays Solly Mosler, a resilient, quirky transgender woman and former Hollywood actress who becomes Angel's self-appointed guardian. This character adds a unique layer to the movie, being both comic and tragic. Dick Shawn's eccentric character of street-performing magician, Mae, brings a balance with a dash of charm and levity.

As events unravel, the movie takes a more sinister turn when a serial killer starts hunting the streets. Instead of focusing solely on the slasher element, the film uses this plot to underline the dangers lurking in Angel's life. It showcases the power dynamic and systematic violence women are subjected to and raises pressing questions about societal norms, morality, and hypocrisy.

Throughout the movie, the city of Hollywood plays a significant role. It's construed not just as a location, but as a living, breathing character. Director O’Neill manages to capture the extravagance that Hollywood stands for, but also its darker side. The glamour and the squalor of the Hollywood Boulevard are both presented side by side. The lights and glitz of the Hollywood Walk of Fame effortlessly blend with grimy sidewalks, run-down buildings, and bleak alleyways.

The cinematography of this film is commendable as it beautifully transitions between the diverse facets of Angel's life. Successfully contrasting the brightness of her school environment with the moody, neon-lit streets of Hollywood Boulevard, it paints a poignant picture of the kind of duality that Angel juggles daily.

The screenplay is another tour-de-force element driving the narrative with depth and drama. Its authentic street language and representation of urban life offer a realistic portrayal of Angel's world. Charting a gripping arc, it encompasses elements of suspense, emotion, and dark humor.

Featuring an About Face in terms of traditional filmmaking, Angel is a movie that marks a milestone in the neo-noir crime genre. It provides viewers with a valuable insight into the everyday struggles and battles of a 15-year-old teenager, portraying the bare reality of a life balanced on the edge of society's norms.

As a coming-of-age drama, it serves a heavy dose of reality accompanied by engaging storytelling with noteworthy performances. Its well-structured, nuanced character arcs and honest portrayal make it both impactful and memorable. Be prepared for a shocking yet enticing glimpse into the contrasting world of Hollywood, with Angel serving as your guide. True to its title, Angel offers an angelic perspective on life, even when surrounded by the unheavenly parts of society. It's a must-watch for those with an appetite for thematic depth, complex characters, and an unconventional narrative.