Survival Against Odds in 19th Century America

Read Time:3 Minute, 51 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Ballad of Little Jo
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Genre: Drama, Romance, Western
Year Released: 1993, 2024 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 2h 1m
Director(s): Maggie Greenwald
Writer(s): Maggie Greenwald
Cast: Suzy Amis, Bo Hopkins, Ian McKellen, David Chung, Heather Graham, René Auberjonois, Carrie Snodgress
Where To Watch: available now here www.kinolorber.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: THE BALLAD OF LITTLE JO is a different take on a journey across both familiar and unexplored terrains of the Western genre. Maggie Greenwald directs a specific goal in mind, steering us through a narrative rich with themes of identity, resilience, and breaking societal norms. At the heart of this film is Suzy Amis, portraying Jo Monaghan with a depth that captivates and challenges. Her transformation from a life of luxury to a rugged existence in Ruby City, Idaho, is a profound exploration of gender and the human spirit in the face of adversity. While it wasn’t the first of its kind, nor the last, the film takes the Western genre away from the perceived cliches that we’ve become used to over the years.

THE BALLAD OF LITTLE JO reshapes the Western landscape, injecting it with a story piercing the genre's traditional fabric. Jo’s scandal-driven departure from her past life, leading to her assumption of a male identity for survival, lays the groundwork for a gripping saga of self-discovery against the backdrop of the 19th-century American West. This film stands out for its nuanced critique of gender roles, wrapped in the dusty aesthetics of Western cinema but pulsating with contemporary relevance. At its core, the film is still a Western, and I have always struggled with the pacing of the genre; while there are several that I’ve enjoyed over the years, in general, they’re not my favorite.

Greenwald's creation goes beyond mere retelling a historical tale, embedding its narrative with a critique of gender roles and expectations. It's a bold move, positioning THE BALLAD OF LITTLE JO as a bridge between past and present discussions on identity, which are more everpresent today than when the film was made, proving it was ahead of its time. The movie's commitment to historical authenticity and its unflinching portrayal of societal brutalities sets a backdrop where moments of human connection shine brightly, offering glimmers of empathy and inclusivity amidst the harshness.

However, no journey is without its bumps, and THE BALLAD OF LITTLE JO encounters a few. The film's ambition sometimes outpaces its grasp, particularly in fully developing the secondary characters' tapestry and interactions with Jo. A richer exploration of these relationships could have added layers to the narrative, providing a more comprehensive view of the community dynamics.

Despite these shortcomings, THE BALLAD OF LITTLE JO remains a significant achievement. It's a film that reimagines the Western genre, blending the raw with the reflective, and serves as a platform for discussing themes of gender, identity, and resilience. Suzy Amis's performance is captivating, navigating the complexities of her character's journey with nuance and strength.

THE BALLAD OF LITTLE JO is a daring and insightful film offering a unique Western perspective. It's a narrative that challenges and entertains, inviting viewers to reconsider their preconceptions about identity and heroism. While it may not achieve perfection in every aspect, its ambitious storytelling and compelling performances mark it as essential viewing for anyone seeking depth and diversity in their cinematic expeditions.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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