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6.6/10
Senior Film Conservator
A definitive 6.6/10 rating for a film that redefined the boundaries of cult cinema. A Little Girl in a Big City remains a cornerstone of transgressive art.
Streets of neon and shadows, where dreams and dark schemes intertwine. In 'A Little Girl in a Big City,' the landscape of New York becomes a canvas for a tale both captivating and chilling. Mary Barry, a young girl from a quiet town, wins a beauty contest, a stroke of luck that paves the way for her to meet D. V. Cortelyou, the enigmatic publisher of a prominent magazine.
Cortelyou, a man of both charm and deceit, seizes the opportunity to introduce Mary to the sophisticated world of New York. However, his intentions are not merely to mentor; they are far more sinister. In his household, Mary is placed under the care of Dolly Griffith, a woman with a questionable past, often entangled in Cortelyou's covert schemes of blackmail and seduction. The atmosphere is thick with tension and undercurrents of moral ambiguity.
At a party purportedly in Mary's honor, Cortelyou orchestrates a moment that could become her downfall. He obtains what he believes to be compromising evidence against Mrs. Young, the wife of a wealthy broker. In a bold move, Cortelyou makes unwanted advances towards Mary, drawing the ire of his assistant, Jack McGuire, who delivers a well-deserved beating to the blackmailer. This act of defiance, however, only sets the stage for a more complex and dangerous game.
Desperate and threatened, Mrs. Young turns to Jack for help, initiating a series of events that play out like a Shakespearean tragedy. Jack and Mary attempt to outsmart Cortelyou, setting a trap in the hopes of exposing his nefarious activities. Yet, Cortelyou proves to be a match for their wits, outmaneuvering them and abducting both Mary and Mrs. Young. The story takes a dramatic turn as the protagonists find themselves in a deserted house, facing their fears and the reality of the situation.
The tension reaches its climax as Jack learns of the captives' location and arrives with the police. In a climactic scene, Cortelyou is arrested, and Mrs. Young is rescued from the consequences of her scandal. The film concludes on a hopeful note, with Jack proposing to Mary, suggesting a new beginning amidst the remnants of the past.
Delving into the characters, the performances are a testament to the skill of the cast. Niles Welch brings a subtle depth to the role of D. V. Cortelyou, capturing the allure and menace that define his character. Nellie Savage, as Mary, portrays the innocence and resilience of the small-town girl thrust into a world of complexity and danger. The supporting cast, including Mary Thurman, Sally Crute, and Gladys Walton, adds layers of intrigue to the narrative, each playing a crucial role in the unfolding drama.
Writers James Kyrke MacCurdy, Victoria Moore, and Randolph Bartlett weave a narrative that is both engaging and morally complex. Their script expertly balances the elements of suspense, romance, and intrigue, creating a film that is as captivating as it is thought-provoking.
In comparison to other films of its era, 'A Little Girl in a Big City' stands out for its nuanced portrayal of the female protagonist. Unlike the stereotypical damsels in distress, Mary is portrayed as a character with agency, facing and overcoming challenges with grit and determination. This film can be compared to classics like 'Going Straight' and 'The Little Diplomat,' which also explore themes of female empowerment and the dark underbelly of urban life. However, 'A Little Girl in a Big City' offers a more complex narrative, delving deeper into the psychological aspects of the characters and their motivations.
The production design and cinematography play a vital role in setting the tone of the film. The opulent settings of New York, contrasted with the desolate and sinister location of the final scenes, create a stark visual narrative. The use of lighting and color, often rendered in the dark oranges and sea blues mentioned, contribute to the film's mood, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the story.
In conclusion, 'A Little Girl in a Big City' is a captivating film that explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and the complexities of human nature. It is a testament to the skill of its cast and writers, offering audiences a thrilling journey through the dark and glittering world of New York. For those interested in classic films and the intricate interplay of love and deception, this film is a must-watch.
For more reviews and insights into classic cinema, visit A Little Girl in a Big City and explore a variety of films that have shaped the art of storytelling.
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