Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields (2023)

Review Team

4/5

Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields offers an in-depth look at the life of a woman often seen through the lens of her early fame. Directed by Lana Wilson, the documentary is a poignant exploration of Shields' journey from child star to empowered adult. The film effectively juxtaposes her childhood experienc ... Show more >> Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields offers an in-depth look at the life of a woman often seen through the lens of her early fame. Directed by Lana Wilson, the documentary is a poignant exploration of Shields' journey from child star to empowered adult. The film effectively juxtaposes her childhood experiences with the harsh realities of fame, particularly the sexualisation of young girls. Shields’ candid reflections provide a raw honesty that is both refreshing and unsettling. The direction is sensitive, allowing her narrative to unfold organically, and it invites viewers to reconsider the impact of societal expectations on young women. The emotional weight of the film lies in its ability to provoke thought about identity and autonomy, making it a significant watch for anyone interested in the complexities of fame. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields is a mixed bag that sometimes shines but also falters. While it’s undeniably fascinating to hear Brooke’s story, the documentary occasionally feels like it’s skimming over deeper issues. The tone is a bit uneven, swinging between heartfelt and overly sentimental at times. ... Show more >> Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields is a mixed bag that sometimes shines but also falters. While it’s undeniably fascinating to hear Brooke’s story, the documentary occasionally feels like it’s skimming over deeper issues. The tone is a bit uneven, swinging between heartfelt and overly sentimental at times. Brooke's performances in her early films are revisited, and while they are striking, I wanted more critical analysis of how they shaped her identity. Lana Wilson’s direction captures some powerful moments, yet there are sections that feel rushed, leaving viewers wanting more context. Overall, it’s a worthwhile watch for fans of Shields or those interested in the darker sides of child stardom, but it could have benefitted from a deeper dive into the implications of her experiences. Show less