Urchins

About This Movie

Urchins (1917) offers a haunting glimpse into the darker sides of society, where a madwoman's tragic demise serves as a vehicle for reflecting on the human condition. The pacing is almost hypnotic, drawing viewers into the grim atmosphere of the asylum and the cold, clinical setting of the anatomy lesson. What stands out is the chilling contrast between the body on the table and the male doctors, evoking themes of objectification and the dissection of humanity itself. The practical effects are rudimentary yet effective, adding to the eerie tone. It's a film that's unsettling yet fascinating, hinting at social commentary that resonates even today.

Urchins has a certain rarity, often escaping the attention of casual film collectors. It exists in various formats, but pristine copies are hard to come by, which adds to its allure. Enthusiasts appreciate its stark representation of early 20th-century attitudes towards madness and the female body, making it a curious piece for those interested in silent film history and social themes of the era.