A slightly less awkward rendering of a good story---and one which I enjoyed---would have been awarded a couple of additional points. Like one of the previous reviewers, I also thought about "Blackboard Jungle". The social context and questions: are individuals whose formative years are lived in poverty responsible for their errant behavior? What is the role of the authorities; the clergy; educators? The cinematic exposition was a bit awkward though well-filmed in an English city in the 1950's. One can't fault the writers, directors, and producers---who weren't Rossellinis---since many elements are engaging, especially the scenes in the street, school yards, and open spaces. The influence of popular culture, shown in the trance-like dancing to the pop music of the day, was artificial. Throwing in a decent priest and an understanding school teacher made the story a bit Capraesque. The last scenes were tense and well filmed. Overall, it was worth a look but a bit dated.
Review of Violent Playground
