That Kind of Girl

That Kind of Girl is a British film released in 1963 and directed by notable auteur Robert Hartford-Davis. This groundbreaking exploitation film marked a significant turning point in the trajectory of British cinema and continues to hold a unique charm that offers invaluable insight into the social climate of 1960s London.

Set in the heart of the swinging sixties' London, That Kind of Girl is an intriguing reflection of the culture that rocked the decade unlike any other. The magnificent Margaret Rose Keil steps into the shoes of Eva, an Austrian au pair who is the film's central character, representing the enigmatic 'kind of girl' suggested by the title. As a newly arrived foreign visitor, she is unabashed, vivacious, and enthusiastic about her new life, which significantly contributes to the uniqueness of her character.

The plot pivots around Eva, exploring her interactions with the city and the fascinating array of individuals she encounters. It highlights her joyful, nomadic journey that takes her from one home to another as she struggles to find her place in a city amidst an economic and social revolution. Her story becomes an emblematic representation of the countless young foreigners who flocked to the city in search of work and an opportunity to break free from their mundane lives.

Linda Marlowe and David Weston round off the main acting trio in a film that uses its characters as metaphors for the larger socio-political issues of the time. Marlowe portrays Janet, a level-headed secretary who serves as a sharp contrast to Eva's spirited demeanor. Simultaneously, Weston plays a middle-class romantic interest named Keith who is caught in an emotional whirlwind, torn between his affluent background and his budding relationship with Eva.

What makes That Kind of Girl even more noteworthy is its pioneering approach to tackle the topic of sexually transmitted diseases. The subject is, quite strikingly, positioned as a public concern and used to further the film’s narrative, making it extremely progressive for its time. The film also touches upon the class distinctions prevalent in the British society and sheds light on the judgment and prejudice that dominated the era.

That Kind of Girl can be seen as a vibrant patchwork of socio-cultural commentary, romance, and drama. The mise-en-scene is heavily influenced by the high-spirits of the sixties that come alive across London streets, parties, and festivals. The music, an integral part of the whole narrative, richly illustrates the swinging vibe of the period with a lively and swinging soundtrack serving as a backdrop to many scenes. Film’s black and white color palette lends an old-world charm, while its realistic setting underscores the agency of the characters and anchors it deeper into reality.

Robert Hartford-Davis does a commendable job of blurring the lines between reality and fiction. The director’s precise approach in the portrayal of romantic relationships, scenarios about health awareness, and the exploration of cultural diversity is commendable. His usage of extensive close-ups and long shots paints a detailed portrait of the film's era, offering a dual perspective to the audience.

This vintage drama can even be seen as a precursor to the British New Wave, carving out a niche position for itself in the annals of British cinema. The movie does not shy away from confronting the social norms, thus paving the way for more audacious narratives in future British films.

Overall, That Kind of Girl is an enthralling time capsule that captures the essence of London life during the sixties, offering unique insights through its character archetypes. Its unflinching portrayal of socio-political issues, striking performances, and a gritty and realistic narrative make it a film worth venturing. The true power of this movie lies in its raw depiction of the vibrant era — bold, unabashed, and honest, much like its central character, Eva.