Introduction"Raggedy Man" is a 1981 American drama movie directed by Jack Fisk and starring Sissy Spacek, Eric Roberts, and Sam Shepard. The movie is based on the novel "The Raggedy Man" by William D. Wittliff, who likewise wrote the movie script. The story is set throughout World War II and focuses on a divorced single mother, Nita Longley, who makes a life for herself and her 2 kids in Baxter, a small Texan town. The film explores themes of love, domesticity, and social expectations.
PlotNita Longley (Sissy Spacek) is a young separated woman living in Texas with her two young children, Harry (Henry Thomas) and Henry (Carey Hollis Jr.). She takes a task as a switchboard operator in a small-town telephone workplace in order to provide for her kids. Though her position is challenging-- she needs to deal with the impolite and meddlesome clients-- Nita finds comfort and friendship in her coworker, Nelda (R. G. Armstrong), and her manager, Mr. Rigby (William Sanderson).
In spite of her best efforts to forge a steady life for herself and her children, Nita deals with prejudice and judgement from the tight-knit neighborhood due to her status as a divorced female. Though the townspeople claim to appreciate her, they are frequently terrible and unsupportive. Nita finds solace in her relationship with the kindly town intoxicated, Arthur (Tracey Walter), who ends up being a surrogate daddy figure to her children.
One day, Nita meets and falls for Teddy (Eric Roberts), a sailor who has actually pertained to Baxter on leave. Though initially smitten by her, Teddy is ultimately dissuaded from pursuing a relationship with Nita due to negative chatter surrounding her divorce. Heartbroken, Nita resigns herself to a lonesome presence in the small-minded town.
In spite of the setbacks in her individual life, Nita is figured out to keep a sense of normalcy for her kids. This is disrupted when Harry accidentally lets the family canine out, which leads them to find the frightening Raggedy Man (Sam Shepard) - a mystical and enormous figure reported to be a killer. The Raggedy Man's presence casts a dark shadow over Nita's life, as she faces her fear of him and her growing anger at society's ruthless judgment of her.
Character DevelopmentThroughout the film, Nita exhibits the strength and resilience of a woman facing relatively overwhelming adversity. She is largely encouraged by her love for her boys and her desire to produce a stable environment for them to mature in. Her relationships with various characters, including her colleagues and Teddy, show her continued mission for some semblance of joy in the face of ruthless prejudice.
At the same time, "Raggedy Man" portrays the lengths that individuals in villages want to go to perpetuate chatter and judgement. Regardless of the townspeople's superficial support and admiration for Nita, they consistently undermine her efforts to construct a life for herself and her sons.
Styles and SymbolsThe style of the societal pressure on women, especially separated ladies, can be seen in Nita's struggles with gossip and prejudice. Additionally, "Raggedy Man" checks out the styles of love, hope, and acceptance within the context of small-town America. The character of the Raggedy Man serves as a symbol of the fear and horror that develops from harmful gossip and the prevalent judgement dealt with by Nita and her family.
Conclusion"Raggedy Man" is a poignant and thought-provoking movie that looks into social expectations and bias in a little Texan town throughout World War II. Anchored by excellent efficiencies from Sissy Spacek, Eric Roberts, and Sam Shepard, it uses an engaging expedition of the durability and decision of a lady having a hard time to make a life for herself and her kids in the face of unforgiving social norms. With its relevant themes and perfectly crafted story, "Raggedy Man" stays a powerful piece of cinema nearly four decades after its release.
Top Cast
