The film explores complex themes, including the lives of those in the margins of society, the child prostitution, and early 20th-century American social issues. It sparked significant controversy due to some of its explicit content and portrayal of underage characters in mature situations.
: The film was banned entirely in Ontario and Saskatchewan until 1995 due to its themes. Digital Preservation pretty baby 1978 uncropped dvb germanavi new
Digital Video Broadcasting. This indicates the source was not a commercial DVD or Blu-ray, but an over-the-air or satellite digital television broadcast. In Europe, particularly Germany (hence "German"), television stations like ARTE, ZDF, or WDR occasionally aired rare, uncensored prints of controversial films late at night. These DVB broadcasts were often masters struck directly from inter-positives that were never released to the public. The film explores complex themes, including the lives
: Brooke Shields’ portrayal of Violet is frequently called the best of her career, showing "unprecedented depth" for such a young actress. Susan Sarandon and Keith Carradine also receive praise for their nuanced, "haunted" performances. : The film was banned entirely in Ontario