The Little Girl Who Lives Down the Lane (1976)

Summary
"The Little Girl Who Lives Down the Lane" is a 1976 Canadian-French psychological horror film directed by Nicolas Gessner. The motion picture focuses on a 13-year-old girl called Rynn Jacobs (played by Jodie Foster) who lives alone in her dad's house and fights hostile townsfolk and a meddlesome landlady as she attempts to hide a dark trick.

Plot
The film starts on Halloween, with Rynn commemorating her thirteenth birthday alone in her dad's charming house which is secluded from the rest of the town. The nosy landlady, Mrs. Hallet (Alexis Smith), and her perverted child, Frank (Martin Sheen), end up being suspicious when they never see Rynn's dad, a poet who's allegedly working in New York.

Throughout the movie, Rynn consistently firmly insists that her dad is busy or out of town and keeps her self-reliance stubbornly. She fulfills the regional magic lover, a young boy called Mario (Scott Jacoby), and they form an unique relationship where Mario becomes Rynn's ally and protector as Frank's advances slowly become a substantial threat. Throughout the movie, the mystery behind her dad's lack gradually unwinds.

Tricks Unveiled
As the movie advances, it is revealed that Rynn's father had actually died, leaving her alone. He was terminally ill and chose not to subject Rynn to cultivate houses; rather, he left her the house with detailed instructions and enough money to last till she was self-dependent. Rynn took it upon herself to keep his death a secret, continued living in your home individually, and done without anybody who threatened to expose her.

Rynn's trick is gradually found by her next-door neighbors, Mrs. Hallet and her child Frank. When Frank tries to abuse Rynn sexually, Mario inadvertently eliminates him. Together, they hide Frank's body, deepening the secret of the little woman living alone down the lane.

Conclusion
In the end, Rynn outmaneuvers Mrs. Hallet by poisoning her after she finds her kid's fate. The movie concludes with Rynn devoid of dangers and suspicion, continuing to live individually with her secret protected.

Themes and Reception
"The Little Girl Who Lives Down the Lane" was questionable due to the portrayal of Jodie Foster's underage character, Rynn. However, her strong efficiency was notable, making her a Saturn Award for Best Actress. The film discusses crucial styles of kid abuse, sexual predation, and the violence that originates from protecting one's autonomy.

Through the chilling plot and vibrant efficiencies, the film elaborates on the struggle of a teen, alone worldwide, using extreme measures to protect her independence. It brilliantly depicts how innocence can be masked with ominous secrets. Despite its criticism, "The Little Girl Who Lives Down the Lane" still stands apart as an unique mental thriller with an engaging plot twist and a striking efficiency by a young Jodie Foster.

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