Not Wanted
Not Wanted

Movie spotlight

Not Wanted

1949
Movie
91 min
English

After a beautiful but unsophisticated girl is seduced by a worldly piano player and gives up her out-of-wedlock baby, her guilt compels her to kidnap another child.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: Elmer CliftonGenres: Drama, Film Noir

Plot Summary

A pregnant woman, desperate to escape her life and start anew, abandons her baby and flees. She creates a new identity and attempts to build a life, but her past soon catches up with her, forcing her to confront the consequences of her actions. The film explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the societal pressures faced by women in the mid-20th century.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'Not Wanted' received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its melodramatic intensity and social commentary, while others found its plot overly contrived and sensationalist. It gained a cult following over time for its raw portrayal of a taboo subject and its noir-ish atmosphere.

What Reviewers Say

  • A surprisingly candid depiction of unwed motherhood and societal judgment.

  • Features a strong, albeit melodramatic, performance from its lead.

  • The film's noir elements add a compelling, dark undertone to the domestic drama.

Google audience: Audience reception is not widely available for this older film, but it is often cited for its bold themes for the era.

Fun Fact

This film was produced by the husband-and-wife team of Ida Lupino and Collier Young, who also starred in and directed other notable B-movies exploring social issues.

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