The Young and the Damned

The Young and the Damned (1950) Movie Review

“The Young and the Damned” (original title: “Los Olvidados),” directed by Luis Buñuel and released in 1950, is a seminal work in Mexican cinema that delves into themes of poverty, crime, and social injustice. This landmark film is celebrated for its raw portrayal of life in the slums of Mexico City and its incisive social commentary.

Plot Summary

“The Young and the Damned” offers a stark, unflinching view of the lives of marginalized youth in Mexico City. The film follows the struggles of a group of young people living in extreme poverty and the various ways they cope with their harsh realities.

1. Main Characters:
   • Pedro (Alfonso Mejía): A young boy who becomes embroiled in a life of crime. His struggles with poverty and lack of opportunities drive him into a cycle of delinquency.
   • Jaibo (Roberto Cobo): A charismatic yet troubled young man who leads a gang and represents the harshness of street life. His influence over the younger boys is significant and destructive.
   • Juliana (Margarita Mora): Pedro’s mother, who is struggling to provide for her family in the face of overwhelming poverty. Her situation reflects the broader social issues affecting the community.
2. Plot Overview:
   • Pedro’s Descent: The film begins with Pedro’s difficult life and his gradual descent into crime. His poverty and lack of support push him toward a life of theft and violence.
   • Gang Dynamics: The film explores the dynamics of Jaibo’s gang and the impact it has on its members. The gang’s activities are a significant factor in the young boys’ lives and contribute to their spiral into criminality.
   • Social Commentary: The narrative highlights the systemic issues contributing to the plight of these young individuals, including inadequate social support and the harsh realities of urban poverty.
3. Key Themes:
   • Poverty and Inequality: The film provides a critical examination of the socioeconomic conditions that lead to crime and delinquency. It portrays the harsh realities of life in the slums and the lack of opportunities for the youth.
   • Cycle of Violence: The film underscores the cyclical nature of violence and crime, showing how the environment and social conditions perpetuate these issues.
   • Social Marginalization: It also addresses the theme of social marginalization and the struggles of individuals who are left behind by society.

Key Performances and Direction

1. Performances:
   • Alfonso Mejía delivers a compelling portrayal of Pedro, capturing the character’s vulnerability and desperation.
   • Roberto Cobo gives a powerful performance as Jaibo, embodying the menace and charisma of his character.
   • Margarita Mora effectively conveys the struggles of a mother trying to care for her family under dire circumstances.
2. Direction:
   • Luis Buñuel’s direction is marked by its stark realism and social critique. He employs a documentary-like style to enhance the film’s authenticity and emotional impact.
   • The screenplay by Buñuel and the contributions from co-writer Luis Alcoriza effectively captures the harshness of life in the slums and the systemic issues affecting the characters.

Cinematography and Visual Style

The cinematography, by Gabriel Figueroa, is instrumental in creating the film’s gritty, realistic atmosphere. The use of black-and-white film enhances the starkness of the narrative and reflects the bleakness of the characters’ environment. The visual style contributes significantly to the film’s impact, capturing the raw and unfiltered reality of life in poverty.

Audience Reception and Legacy

“The Young and the Damned” received widespread acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of social issues and its innovative approach to filmmaking. The film is considered a classic of Mexican cinema and an important work in the history of social realist films.

Critics and audiences have praised the film for its powerful performances, its critical examination of social issues, and its groundbreaking approach to storytelling. It remains a significant reference point for discussions about poverty and social justice in cinema.

Streaming and Availability

For those interested in watching “The Young and the Damned,” the film is available on several platforms:

• Amazon Prime Video: Check for rental or purchase options.
• Apple TV: Check for rental or purchase options.
• Google Play Movies: Offers rental and purchase options.
• YouTube Movies: Available for rental or purchase.

Conclusion

“The Young and the Damned” is a powerful and thought-provoking film that offers a raw and honest portrayal of life in the slums of Mexico City. With its strong performances, incisive social commentary, and striking visual style, the film remains a landmark in cinema and a vital work for understanding social issues through film.

For those interested in exploring themes of poverty, crime, and social injustice, “The Young and the Damned” is an essential watch that continues to resonate with its compelling narrative and profound impact.