Watch Rag Doll

Rag Doll is a British drama film, released in 1961, directed by Maureen Baker-Moth and starring Jess Conrad, Hermione Baddeley, and Kenneth Griffith. The movie tells the story of a young boy named Teddy Boy, played by Jess Conrad, who lives in the East End of London with his mother, Mrs. Gorman, played by Hermione Baddeley. Teddy is a kind and gentle soul with a passion for music and dance, but he is also a victim of physical and emotional abuse from his mother's boyfriend, Alfie, played by Kenneth Griffith. The film begins with a scene of Teddy being thrown out of his home by his mother, after Alfie accuses him of stealing a cigarette. The boy is forced to spend the night in the streets, and the audience soon discovers that he has nowhere to go. The following day, he meets a group of young girls who introduce him to the world of dance clubs, where he quickly becomes the most popular dancer in town. However, his personal life is still a constant struggle, as he faces rejection from his mother and isolation from his schoolmates. As the story progresses, Teddy tries to find his place in the world, and he discovers that his passion for dancing may be his ticket out of his difficult life. He meets a dance promoter named Mr. Victory, who becomes his mentor and helps him pursue his dream. Teddy's talent gets noticed by a Hollywood producer, who offers him a chance to audition for a film. Despite his excitement, Teddy still struggles to find a way to reconcile with his mother and come to terms with his troubled past. The film is set against the backdrop of the Teddy Boy subculture, a youth movement that emerged in England in the 1950s. Teddy Boys were known for their distinctive clothing, which included drape jackets, drainpipe trousers, and crepe-soled shoes. They were also known for their love of rock and roll music and dance, which played a central role in their social lives. Rag Doll presents a gritty and realistic portrayal of life in the East End of London, and the film's gritty black and white visuals evoke the harsh reality of Teddy's life. The movie is notable for its excellent performances, especially Jess Conrad's portrayal of Teddy, which was praised by film critics at the time. The film's soundtrack is also noteworthy, featuring songs by popular artists from the era, including Johnny Kidd and the Pirates, The Tornados, and The Shadows. Overall, Rag Doll is a moving and powerful film that explores themes of poverty, abuse, and the power of art to transform lives. The movie presents a poignant portrait of a young boy's struggle to find his place in the world, and his journey to discover his own identity and strength. Despite its age, Rag Doll remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.