Cry-Baby

Cry-Baby

Year: 1990

Runtime: 85 min

Language: English

ComedyMusical

A rebellious "drape" named Wade Boggs clashes with the wholesome, popular girl, Allison Vernon-Williams, in 1954 Baltimore. Wade, along with his misfit friends, challenges the town's rigid social norms and falls for Allison, leading to a battle between the "drapes" and the "squares." This comedic musical features energetic dance numbers and explores themes of love, acceptance, and defying expectations.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Cry-Baby (1990)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Cry-Baby (1990). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1954

Set in 1954, the film reflects a post-World War II era marked by societal norms and youth rebellion. This time period saw the emergence of new cultural movements, alongside the lingering effects of the war, leading to the clash between conservative and progressive ideals within the youth.

Location

Baltimore

Baltimore serves as the vibrant backdrop for 'Cry-Baby.' Known for its rich cultural history, the city is characterized by a mix of urban life and eclectic neighborhoods. The film captures the essence of the 1950s youth culture against the backdrop of this bustling city.

🌆 City 🏙️ Urban

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:33

Main Characters – Cry-Baby (1990)

Meet the key characters of Cry-Baby (1990), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Wade 'Cry-Baby' Walker

Cry-Baby, portrayed by Johnny Depp, is a charismatic rebel with a unique talent for evoking emotion through a single tear. His tough exterior masks deep-seated pain from a troubled past. With a fierce loyalty to his friends, he embodies the spirit of rebellion while navigating the complexities of love and acceptance.

🕶️ Rebel 😢 Sensitive

Allison Vernon-Williams

Allison, played by Amy Locane, is a beautiful upper-class girl seeking excitement beyond her mundane life. Captivated by Cry-Baby, she defies her controlling boyfriend and societal expectations. Her character development reflects the struggle between societal norms and the pursuit of personal happiness.

🌼 Adventurous 💔 Torn

Mona 'Hatchet-Face' Malnorowski

Mona, brought to life by Kim McGuire, is a fiercely tough member of the 'Drapes.' Her disfigurement does not deter her from expressing herself boldly within the gang. She represents the theme of inner strength and loyalty, showcasing the complexities of beauty and acceptance.

🔥 Fierce 🖤 Loyal

Pepper

Pepper, portrayed by Ricki Lake, is Cry-Baby's spirited sister, embodying the lively essence of the Drapes. Her unyielding support for her brother and friends underscores the importance of familial bonds and friendship in times of turmoil.

🎉 Supportive 🌟 Free-spirited

Baldwin

Baldwin is the controlling boyfriend of Allison and a key antagonist in the story. His actions reflect the rigid expectations of the upper class, creating obstacles for Allison's newfound freedom. His character represents the societal pressure that seeks to stifle individuality.

😠 Controlling 🚫 Oppressive

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:33

Major Themes – Cry-Baby (1990)

Explore the central themes of Cry-Baby (1990), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

✨ Rebellion

Rebellion is a central theme in 'Cry-Baby,' showcased through the defiant actions of the 'Drapes' gang. The characters challenge societal norms and express their individuality through fashion and attitude. This theme resonates with the struggle for self-identity and personal freedom in a conformist society.

❤️ Love

Love plays a pivotal role in the narrative, particularly through the connection between Cry-Baby and Allison. Their relationship highlights the challenges of love amidst societal pressures and personal struggles. It emphasizes the transformative power of love as both characters grow and support each other throughout their journey.

⚖️ Justice

The theme of justice illustrates the contrasts between the treatment of the 'Drapes' and the upper-class 'squares.' The film critiques the injustices faced by those who dare to be different, culminating in Cry-Baby's unfair confinement. This theme prompts viewers to think about how social class impacts justice.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:33

Unlock the Full Story of Cry-Baby

Don't stop at just watching — explore Cry-Baby in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Cry-Baby is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Cry-Baby Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Cry-Baby, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Cry-Baby Summary

Cry-Baby Timeline

Track the full timeline of Cry-Baby with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Cry-Baby Timeline

More About Cry-Baby

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Cry-Baby: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Cry-Baby

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Discover movies like Cry-Baby that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.

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