When discussing the most provocative films of the 1970s—a decade famous for pushing cinematic boundaries— Pretty Baby (1978) inevitably occupies a unique, uncomfortable space. Directed by the acclaimed French filmmaker Louis Malle, the film is neither a traditional historical drama nor an exploitation piece, though it has been accused of being the latter since its release.
: The film was banned in several countries and cities across the U.S. upon its release. Legacy and Modern Re-evaluation
: The character E.J. Bellocq (played by Keith Carradine) is based on the real-life photographer Ernest J. Bellocq, whose portraits of Storyville residents were discovered decades after his death. Literary Influence
: In recent years, documentaries and interviews have revisited the production of the film to discuss the experiences of the cast and the cultural reception of the movie during its initial release. historical Storyville district