Watch Girls' Town
- 1942
- 1 hr 8 min
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5.5 (65)
Girls' Town is a 1942 American drama film. Directed by Victor Halperin, the movie stars Edith Fellows, June Storey, and Kenneth Howell in lead roles. It tells the story of five teenage girls who are sent to a reformatory after getting involved in a series of unfortunate events. The movie begins with orphan Mary Blake (Edith Fellows) trying to evade the police. She runs into a group of teenage girls, who are also trying to get away from the authorities. The girls find solace in each other's company, and Mary realizes that they are all going through similar struggles in life.
The girls are sent to a reform school, where they are bullied and mistreated by the staff. However, Mary refuses to be broken and decides to fight back. Along with her new friends, she creates a girls' town within the reform school, where they all work together and look after each other.
As time goes on, tensions rise within the girls' town. The group becomes divided, and Mary has to take charge to restore order. Meanwhile, romance blossoms between Mary and the handsome new industrial arts teacher, Mark Norton (Kenneth Howell).
Throughout the movie, the girls face various challenges, including unfair treatment, discrimination, and abuse. However, they learn to rely on one another and stand up for their rights. The film portrays the strength and resilience of young women in the face of adversity.
One of the highlights of Girls' Town is the performances by the young actresses. Edith Fellows delivers a powerful portrayal of Mary Blake, as she transforms from a rebellious teenager to a mentor and leader. June Storey is also impressive as the tough but caring Gwen Foster, one of Mary's closest allies in the film.
The movie is not without its flaws, however. Some of the supporting characters, including the staff at the reform school, are overly stereotypical and one-dimensional. Additionally, the film does not delve too deeply into some of the more serious issues it touches on, such as race relations and mental illness.
Despite its flaws, Girls' Town is a touching and inspiring film that highlights the importance of female camaraderie and the resiliency of young women. The movie's messages of strength, courage, and compassion still resonate with audiences today, nearly 80 years after its release.