Angel Baby (1961)

Treading some similar territory as the much better Elmer Gantry, Angel Baby can't help but pale in comparison to the slightly earlier film. However, the similarities between the two are essentially superficial, as Angel is much more concerned with a "miracle" girl and her struggle with her beliefs and how the phony world of the faux-evangelicals she encounters impacts on her. It's an interesting premise for a movie, and it's a shame that the trio of screenwriters get stuck in trite, clichéd examinations of the premise rather than delving deeper and with more originality. Paul Wendkos' direction doesn't help to clarify the action or add much depth to the story, but it does allow for some impressive performances. As the title character, Salome Jens brings a strange beauty and a quirky intensity to the part that makes her quite haunting and her performance quite powerful. Mercedes McCambridge delivers an all-out turn that practically bowls the viewer over, and even George Hamilton is in good form here. Throw in some fine support from a young and charismatic Burt Reynolds, as well as {dependable Joan Blondell and Henry Jones, and the result is a film that contains a surprising amount of acting power and far too little writing power. The excellent Haskell Wexler cinematography is also a bonus. ~ Craig Butler, All Movie Guide