Mad Youth
Mad Youth

Movie spotlight

Mad Youth

1940
Movie
76 min
English

A rich society mother hires a male escort, but he falls for her daughter instead. The mother-daughter conflict forces the daughter to run off to stay with a friend who is enslaved by a prostitution ring.

Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Director: Edgar G. UlmerGenres: Crime, Drama, Film-Noir

Plot Summary

A group of delinquent youths, led by a charismatic but ruthless leader, embark on a crime spree that escalates from petty theft to more serious offenses. As their actions become increasingly dangerous, they find themselves entangled with the law and facing the grim consequences of their choices. The film explores the societal factors contributing to their descent into lawlessness and the difficult paths to redemption.

Critical Reception

Mad Youth is a lesser-known but fascinating entry in Edgar G. Ulmer's filmography, often praised for its gritty portrayal of juvenile delinquency during a tumultuous period. While not a critical darling upon its release, it has since gained a cult following for its atmospheric direction and unflinching look at societal issues.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its early exploration of juvenile delinquency themes.

  • Edgar G. Ulmer's distinctive directorial style adds a noirish atmosphere.

  • Considered a notable B-movie with social commentary.

Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for 'Mad Youth (1940)' is not readily available.

Fun Fact

Director Edgar G. Ulmer was known for his work on low-budget, high-impact films, often infusing them with a unique visual style and dark undertones, even with limited resources.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

To give this it's due, it does try to deal with some rather more grown up themes, but somehow the whole thing just falls a bit flat. In a sort of spin-off from "The Lady Refuses" (1931), this time "Lucy" (Betty Compson) - not averse to a gi...