Echoes of Neorealism in American Cinema

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MOVIE REVIEW
Bless Their Little Hearts
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Genre: African-American Studies, Film Studies, Drama
Year Released: 1984, 2024 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 25m
Director(s): Billy Woodberry
Writer(s): Charles Burnett
Cast: Nate Hardman, Kaycee Moore
Where To Watch: available August 6, 2024; pre-order your copy here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Set in the gritty world of 1980s South Central Los Angeles, BLESS THEIR LITTLE HEARTS emerges as a critical narrative within the L.A. Rebellion, weaving the personal struggles of the Banks family with broader societal issues. The film’s stark black-and-white aesthetic enhances its exploration of themes like masculinity and systemic failure, linking it to the traditions of Italian neorealism but within an American context. Kaycee Moore shines as Andais Banks, offering a multi-dimensional portrayal that captures the tension between family duty and personal despair. This raw and authentic depiction anchors the film’s emotional impact as it delves into the dynamics of a family weathering the storms of unemployment and societal neglect.

Despite its simplicity, BLESS THEIR LITTLE HEARTS secures a spot in the National Film Registry, attesting to its importance in the tapestry of American cinema. The movie's portrayal of resilience in adversity underscores the enduring human spirit. BLESS THEIR LITTLE HEARTS offers a rich exploration of interpersonal dynamics, particularly in portraying the children's roles within the family. The Banks children, though not central to the narrative, provide a subtle but poignant commentary on the generational impact of economic hardship. Their interactions and reactions to the family’s struggles offer a window into the innocence compromised by the harsh realities they witness daily.

The film’s visual style mirrors the bleakness of the era’s urban decay and enhances the story's dramatic intensity, making each frame a poignant reminder of the era's harsh realities. The choice of black and white also nods to the film's thematic concerns, highlighting the clear contrast between the characters' strength and vulnerability.

In BLESS THEIR LITTLE HEARTS, director Billy Woodberry's use of location is pivotal in emphasizing the film's themes. The choice to film in authentic Los Angeles neighborhoods, often overlooked in mainstream cinema, adds a layer of realism that is palpable throughout the movie. These settings not only serve as a backdrop but also reflect the environmental pressures that shape the lives of the film’s characters. The locations are more than mere settings; they are imbued with the weight of economic decline and societal neglect, resonating with the struggles of the Banks family and providing a stark contrast to the resilience they demonstrate against such daunting odds.

BLESS THEIR LITTLE HEARTS presents a compelling look at the trials and tribulations of an African-American family, making it a significant piece in the conversation about cultural and historical representation in cinema. Its ability to portray deep and personal stories against the backdrop of more significant societal issues makes it an essential film for understanding a pivotal era in American history.

Product Extras:
Audio commentary by film scholar Ed Guererro
The Pocketbook (1980, Billy Woodberry’s first film)
Workshop with Billy Woodberry (courtesy of Indiana University Black Film Center/Archive)
Billy and Charles: Ross Lipman’s interview
Interview with Ed Guererro
Bless Their Little Hearts behind-the-scenes photos courtesy of Billy Woodberry.
Booklet with essays by filmmaker Allison Anders and Cornell University professor Samantha N. Sheppard.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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