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6.2/10
Archivist John
Senior Editor
A definitive 6.2/10 rating for a film that redefined the boundaries of cult cinema. Classified remains a cornerstone of transgressive art.
In the twilight of the roaring twenties, Babs Comet, a young and ambitious gal, finds herself ensnared in the intricate web of the classified ad department at a prestigious newspaper in New York City. Her journey is one of evocative contrasts—between the opulence of the newspaper’s grand offices and the gritty underbelly of the city, and between the relentless pursuit of success and the quest for true love.
Set in the vibrant, yet morally ambiguous period of 1920s America, 'Classified' delves into the lives of characters who navigate the complexities of a changing society. Babs, played with a captivating blend of naivety and sly cunning by Edythe Chapman, is a figure of both fascination and frustration. As she ascends the ranks of the classified ad department, Babs leverages her charm and wit to secure her place in a world that often deems her mere decoration.
The film’s narrative is both a social commentary and a romantic endeavor, with Babs’ journey serving as a microcosm of the era’s broader shifts. Her interactions with the cast, including the charming and opportunistic Carroll Nye, the earnest and idealistic Charles Murray, and the enigmatic Ward Crane, paint a vivid portrait of a society in transition. These relationships are more than just romantic entanglements; they reflect the era’s growing tension between tradition and modernity.
Under the direction of George Sidney, 'Classified' captures the essence of a bygone era with meticulous attention to detail. The sets, costumes, and cinematography are a testament to the film’s period authenticity, from the sleek, modernist designs of the newspaper’s office to the stark contrasts of the city’s industrial landscape. The use of light and shadow is particularly noteworthy, with scenes evoking the glamour and grit of the time.
While the film is a product of its time, it retains a timeless quality, offering insights into the universal themes of ambition, love, and personal growth. Babs’ journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to navigate the treacherous waters of both her professional and personal life. Through her experiences, the film explores the complexities of female empowerment in a male-dominated industry, albeit with a certain amount of idealization.
Comparatively, 'Classified' shares thematic similarities with films such as 'The Writing on the Wall' (1923), which also delves into the complexities of the newspaper industry and the lives of women within it. Both films offer a glimpse into the evolving role of women in society, albeit with distinct narrative arcs and cultural contexts.
In conclusion, 'Classified' stands as a poignant and evocative film, capturing the essence of a pivotal era through the lens of a young woman’s journey. It is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, even as it serves as a mirror to the complexities of the past. For fans of the silent era or those interested in the social and cultural dynamics of early 20th century America, 'Classified' is a must-see.
IMDb 6.6
1918
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