Pretty Baby

Pretty Baby

Year: 1978

Runtime: 110 min

Language: English

Director: Louis Malle

Drama

In 1917 New Orleans, the lives of a prostitute named Hattie and photographer E.J. Bellocq intertwine in a poignant story. Their complicated relationship deepens when Hattie's twelve-year-old daughter, Violet, becomes involved in the city’s dangerous and shadowy world. Hattie must confront difficult choices as she tries to protect her daughter while navigating her own challenging circumstances.

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Timeline & Setting – Pretty Baby (1978)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Pretty Baby (1978). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Early 20th Century (1917)

The early 20th century was a period marked by significant social changes and the emergence of the modern era. In 1917, the backdrop of World War I began to impact American society, with various social issues, including women's rights and social reform, coming to the forefront. In this context, the story of 'Pretty Baby' explores the darker aspects of life during this tumultuous time.

Location

New Orleans

New Orleans is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, music, and nightlife. During the early 20th century, it was also notorious for its red-light district, Storyville, where the film 'Pretty Baby' takes place. The city encapsulates a mix of cultural influences, with its fascinating history and unique architecture.

🌆 City 🏙️ Historical

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:31

Main Characters – Pretty Baby (1978)

Meet the key characters of Pretty Baby (1978), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Violet

Violet, played by Brooke Shields, is a young girl navigating the complexities of life in a brothel. Despite her tender age, she has developed an unsettling familiarity with adult themes and expectations. Violet's character embodies innocence intertwined with the harsh realities she faces, making her journey both tragic and poignant.

👧 Young 💔 Resilient

Hattie

Hattie, portrayed by Susan Sarandon, is a complex character who embodies the struggles of a mother in a desperate situation. A prostitute, she represents the harsh choices women had to make in a challenging environment. Hattie's relationship with Violet highlights the burdens of motherhood amid societal pressures.

👩‍👧 Mother 🚨 Struggling

Bellocq

Bellocq, enacted by Keith Carradine, is a photographer who becomes enchanted by Violet's innocence. He represents a conflicting perspective on art, seeking to capture beauty while grappling with the moral implications of his desire. His relationship with Violet evolves from a professional interest to a deeper emotional connection.

📸 Artist 💔 Complex

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:31

Major Themes – Pretty Baby (1978)

Explore the central themes of Pretty Baby (1978), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Innocence Lost

The theme of lost innocence is central to 'Pretty Baby,' as it follows the life of an eleven-year-old girl thrust into the harsh realities of life in a brothel. Violet's journey reflects her struggle to maintain her childhood amidst the grim expectations of adulthood imposed by her environment. The film poignantly illustrates how the innocence of youth can be violently snatched away.

👩‍👧 Motherhood

Motherhood plays a crucial role in shaping the characters and their relationships. Hattie's complex role as a mother reveals the harsh choices she makes in a desperate environment. The strained relationship between Violet and her mother showcases the conflict between maternal duty and personal survival in a challenging setting.

🎨 Art and Objectification

Through the character of Bellocq, the film delves into the themes of art and objectification. His desire to capture beauty through photography contrasts sharply with the exploitation faced by Violet and other women. The interplay between artistic expression and moral dilemmas raises questions about consent and the commodification of sexuality.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:31

Unlock the Full Story of Pretty Baby

Don't stop at just watching — explore Pretty 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 Pretty Baby is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Pretty Baby Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Pretty 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.

Pretty Baby Summary

Pretty Baby Timeline

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

Pretty Baby Timeline

More About Pretty Baby

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Pretty 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 Pretty Baby

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