Darya Schmid

Written by Darya Schmid

Modified & Updated: 01 Oct 2024

Sherman Smith

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

46-facts-about-the-movie-cry-baby
Source: Amazon.com

Are you a fan of cult classics? If so, then the movie “Cry-Baby” is sure to be on your radar. Released in 1990, this offbeat musical directed by John Waters has gained a dedicated following over the years. Set in the 1950s, “Cry-Baby” tells the story of a rebellious teenager named Wade “Cry-Baby” Walker, played by Johnny Depp, who falls in love with a prim and proper girl from the other side of the tracks. With its quirky characters, catchy music, and unique blend of satire and nostalgia, “Cry-Baby” remains a standout in the world of cult cinema. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the fascinating world of “Cry-Baby” and explore 46 interesting facts about the movie that will surely pique your curiosity.

Key Takeaways:

  • “Cry-Baby” is a 1990 musical comedy set in 1950s Baltimore, featuring Johnny Depp and a star-studded cast. It’s a satirical take on the greaser subculture, with memorable characters and iconic fashion moments.
  • The film explores themes of rebellion, acceptance, and the power of music, while balancing comedy and drama. It has a devoted fan base and is considered a cult classic, sparking renewed interest in the 1950s subculture.
Table of Contents

Cry-Baby was directed by John Waters

John Waters, known for his unconventional and cult films, brought his unique style to Cry-Baby, a musical comedy released in 1990.

It stars Johnny Depp in the lead role

Johnny Depp portrayed the rebellious and charismatic Wade “Cry-Baby” Walker, solidifying his status as a versatile actor.

Cry-Baby is set in 1950s Baltimore

The movie takes place in Baltimore during the 1950s, capturing the era’s distinctive fashion, music, and cultural dynamics.

It is a satirical take on the “greaser” subculture

Cry-Baby offers a satirical portrayal of the 1950s greaser subculture and parodies the societal norms of the time.

The film features a star-studded cast

Alongside Johnny Depp, Cry-Baby boasts an impressive ensemble cast including Amy Locane, Ricki Lake, and Traci Lords.

Cry-Baby pays homage to classic musicals

The movie embraces the elements of classic Hollywood musicals, incorporating song and dance numbers into its storyline.

It was a box office success

Cry-Baby grossed over $8 million at the box office, further establishing John Waters‘ cult following and the film’s popularity.

Waters wrote the script specifically for Johnny Depp

Being a fan of Depp’s work, John Waters wrote the screenplay with Depp in mind for the lead role.

The film addresses social and cultural themes

Cry-Baby explores themes of class division, rebellion, and the power of individuality in the face of societal expectations.

The soundtrack features a blend of rock and roll and doo-wop

The music in Cry-Baby reflects the 1950s setting, featuring a combination of rock and roll hits and doo-wop classics.

Cry-Baby received mixed reviews from critics

While some praised the film’s campy style and energetic performances, others felt it lacked substance and depth.

The title character, Cry-Baby, is a heartthrob

Cry-Baby Walker, with his bad-boy image and sensitive side, became a beloved character and heartthrob for many viewers.

The film showcases the clash of social classes

Cry-Baby explores the division between the working class and the upper class, highlighting the tensions and prejudices that exist.

Cry-Baby features over-the-top fashion and hairstyles

The movie’s costume designs and hairstyles exaggerate the 1950s fashion trends to further enhance the campy aesthetic.

Traci Lords made her mainstream film debut in Cry-Baby

Cry-Baby marked Traci Lords‘ transition from the adult film industry to mainstream acting, and she received praise for her performance.

The film contains memorable one-liners

Cry-Baby is filled with quotable and memorable one-liners that have become iconic among fans.

The dance numbers in Cry-Baby are lively and energetic

The musical sequences in Cry-Baby showcase energetic choreography and capture the spirit of 1950s dance styles.

The characters in Cry-Baby have distinct personalities

Each character in Cry-Baby is uniquely defined, adding depth and humor to the overall narrative.

Cry-Baby offers a nostalgic look at the 1950s

The film transports viewers back to the 1950s and evokes a sense of nostalgia for the era’s pop culture and aesthetics.

The film was marketed as a “Romeo and Juliet” story

The marketing for Cry-Baby highlighted the romantic elements of the story, comparing it to the classic tale of forbidden love.

Cry-Baby features quirky and eccentric characters

John Waters’ signature style shines through in the eccentric and offbeat personalities of the supporting characters.

The film’s production design captures the era’s aesthetics

The production design of Cry-Baby meticulously recreates the look and feel of the 1950s, from the sets to the props.

Cry-Baby incorporates humor and satire

Waters’ trademark humor and satirical approach can be seen throughout the film, adding a layer of comedy to the narrative.

The movie has a devoted fan base

Cry-Baby has garnered a dedicated following over the years, with fans celebrating its campy style and nostalgic charm.

It was John Waters’ first PG-13 film

Cry-Baby marked a departure for Waters in terms of its rating, as his previous films were often rated R due to their explicit content.

The film uses subversion to challenge societal norms

Through its unconventional characters and storyline, Cry-Baby challenges the traditional norms and values of 1950s society.

Cry-Baby includes references to other films

John Waters pays homage to classic films throughout Cry-Baby, incorporating subtle references and nods to cinema history.

The movie showcases the power of music to bring people together

Music serves as a unifying element in Cry-Baby, bringing people from different backgrounds together through shared passion.

The film features a memorable courtroom scene

A pivotal courtroom scene in Cry-Baby adds drama and humor to the storyline, showcasing the absurdity of the legal system.

Cry-Baby explores the notion of “bad boys” with a heart of gold

Wade “Cry-Baby” Walker embodies the archetype of the “bad boy” with a sensitive and caring side, challenging stereotypes.

The movie addresses themes of acceptance and self-expression

Cry-Baby encourages viewers to embrace their true selves and defy societal expectations in terms of appearance and behavior.

The film’s soundtrack achieved commercial success

The soundtrack of Cry-Baby was well-received, featuring popular songs from the 1950s and reaching the music charts.

Cry-Baby features flamboyant and exaggerated characters

The film’s characters, including the “drapes” and the “squares,” embrace exaggerated personalities to heighten the comedic effect.

Cry-Baby includes elements of camp and kitsch

John Waters’ love for camp and kitsch aesthetics shines through in the colorful and outlandish visuals of Cry-Baby.

The film explores the tensions between conformity and rebellion

Cry-Baby examines the conflict between conforming to societal expectations and embracing individuality by challenging the status quo.

The movie contains memorable musical performances

From Johnny Depp’s “King Cry-Baby” performance to Amy Locane’s rendition of “Please, Mr. Jailer,” the musical numbers in Cry-Baby leave a lasting impression.

Cry-Baby provides a unique perspective on the 1950s era

While many films romanticize the 1950s, Cry-Baby offers a more satirical and unconventional take on the time period.

The film balances comedy and drama

Cry-Baby seamlessly transitions between comedic moments and more serious, heartfelt scenes, creating a dynamic viewing experience.

Cry-Baby incorporates elements of melodrama

The film adopts the exaggerated emotions and dramatic plot twists often associated with melodramatic storytelling.

The movie features memorable fashion moments

Cry-Baby showcases iconic 1950s fashion trends, from leather jackets and pompadour hairstyles to poodle skirts and saddle shoes.

Cry-Baby sparked a renewed interest in the 1950s subculture

The film’s portrayal of the greaser subculture in the 1950s reignited fascination with the era among a new generation.

The film promotes the power of embracing difference

Through its diverse cast of characters, Cry-Baby promotes acceptance and celebrates the beauty of embracing individuality.

Cry-Baby is a cult classic

Over the years, Cry-Baby has gained a cult following, with fans appreciating its campy style and unique blend of genres.

The film’s costumes were designed by Van Smith

Van Smith, a frequent collaborator of John Waters, created the eye-catching and extravagant costumes for Cry-Baby.

Cry-Baby explores the consequences of societal expectations

The movie delves into the negative effects of conforming to societal norms and the pressures to fit into predetermined roles.

The film’s ending leaves room for interpretation

Cry-Baby’s open-ended conclusion allows viewers to speculate on the characters’ futures and the direction of their relationships.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cry-Baby is a cult classic film that has captured the hearts of many movie enthusiasts. With its unique blend of musical, comedy, and romance, the movie continues to entertain audiences even after several decades. Its talented cast, catchy soundtrack, and John Waters’ distinctive directing style all contribute to its lasting appeal. Whether you’re a fan of 1950s nostalgia or simply enjoy a fun and quirky film, Cry-Baby is definitely worth checking out.

FAQs

Q: Who directed Cry-Baby?
A: Cry-Baby was directed by renowned filmmaker John Waters.

Q: When was Cry-Baby released?
A: Cry-Baby was released on April 6, 1990.

Q: Who stars in Cry-Baby?
A: Cry-Baby features Johnny Depp in the lead role, along with a talented ensemble cast including Amy Locane, Susan Tyrrell, and Iggy Pop.

Q: Is Cry-Baby a musical?
A: Yes, Cry-Baby combines elements of a musical with its catchy songs and dance numbers.

Q: Is Cry-Baby based on a true story?
A: No, Cry-Baby is a fictional story set in the 1950s.

Q: Where was Cry-Baby filmed?
A: Cry-Baby was primarily filmed in Baltimore, Maryland.

Q: What is the runtime of Cry-Baby?
A: Cry-Baby has a runtime of approximately 85 minutes.

Q: Did Cry-Baby perform well at the box office?
A: While Cry-Baby wasn’t a commercial success, it has gained a significant following over the years and achieved cult status.

Q: Can I stream Cry-Baby online?
A: Yes, Cry-Baby is available for streaming on various platforms, such as Amazon Prime Video and Netflix.

Q: Is Cry-Baby suitable for all audiences?
A: Cry-Baby is rated PG-13 for its suggestive content, language, and some violence. Viewer discretion is advised.

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