Pretty Baby

Pretty Baby is a classic American drama film released in 1978, directed by renowned filmmaker Louis Malle. With a commendable cast that stars Brooke Shields, Keith Carradine, and Susan Sarandon, the movie presents a story set in a compelling period that grasps the audience's attention through a tableau of intriguing characters and a controversial yet captivating storyline.

The narrative commences in the early 20th century, primarily located in the lively city of New Orleans. Within this setting, the viewers are introduced to a unique kind of life taking place inside a high-class brothel, leading us into a world that many might find hard to comprehend. The brothel is not merely portrayed as a place of business but also as a habitat, a home.

Susan Sarandon plays Hattie, a prostitute residing in the house who stands out due to her strong character and a beautiful yet innocent 12-year-old daughter named Violet, portrayed ingeniously by the very young Brooke Shields. Despite her tender age, Violet has been brought up within thes confines of the brothel, exhibiting knowledge about the establishment and its proceedings. As the film unfolds, viewers get to witness Violet's transition into womanhood, marked by ceremonies held in the brothel, making her entry into her mother's line of work.

Keith Carradine took on the role of E.J. Bellocq, a cultured, soft-spoken photographer who regularly visits the brothel. He documents the city's legal red light district to capture the lives of the women who work there. His character provides a contrasting perspective, well removed from the other men who frequent the establishment, navigating the narrative's focus towards a more tender view of women. Bellocq's role facilitates a deep dive into the emotional ethos of the women involved. His evident affection for Violet adds another dimension to the storyline, complicating the interpersonal dynamics at play in this unusual world.

A central aspect of Pretty Baby’s charm is its ability to capture the era's essence, transporting the audience back to the New Orleans of 1917. The attention to set design, wardrobe, and overall aesthetics is meticulous and effective, contributing to the film's character as much as the performances themselves. The grandeur of the era becomes a character in itself, taking viewers into a different world and time.

Viewers also get to witness Susan Sarandon in one of her career-defining roles, as she brilliantly portrays Hattie's character. Through her complex, multi-faced performance, Sarandon breathes life into her character, making Hattie's struggles poignant, real, and heart-wrenching. Brooke Shields, despite her tender age, gives a heartfelt and sincere performance as Violet, going beyond mere line delivery to communicate the emotional depth and strength of her character.

Keith Carradine, as E.J. Bellocq, showcases the subtle and sensitive side that forms the prime difference between him and the other male characters portrayed in the film. Carradine’s nuanced and potent portrayal of Bellocq leaves a lasting impression and adds another layer of complexity to the narrative.

Pretty Baby can be seen as a tapestry woven with mature themes, controversial image shifts, and meticulously drawn characters. The portrayal of life in a brothel, a child's early exposure to adult themes, and the unconventional relationship dynamics depicted make for a compellingly complex narrative that continually engages the audience.

Suffused with the director's distinct storytelling style, Pretty Baby absorbs viewers with its strong storyline, nuanced performances, and rich detail. However, it's also important to mention that the film’s controversial themes might make it an uncomfortable watch for some. Yet, it’s the raw honesty in presentation coupled with the stellar performances by the cast and the precise depiction of the era that make it a standout film of its time.

As one observes the storyline, the dialogue, and the characters, Pretty Baby serves as a thought-provoking piece that urges the audience to reflect on the societal norms, perceptions, and the taboos touched upon in the film. It is indeed a distinctive cinematic piece that thoroughly challenges and engages the viewers intellectually and emotionally.