Explore Child Bride (1938), a provocative public domain drama that tackled child marriage in rural America. Learn about its plot, cast, controversy, and lasting legacy.
A Bold Film or Exploitation?
Child Bride (1938), also reissued as Child Brides, Child Bride of the Ozarks, and Dust to Dust, is a controversial drama that aimed to expose the dangers of child marriage in rural communities. Directed by Harry Revier and independently produced outside the Hollywood system, the film stirred national debate due to its taboo subject matter and sensational elements, including the now-infamous nude swim scene involving a minor. Though framed as an educational work, the film remains infamous for its shocking imagery and exploitation marketing.
Storyline Summary
Set in a remote Ozarks town, the story follows Miss Carol (Diana Durrell), an impassioned schoolteacher determined to end the practice of child marriage. She faces fierce resistance from local men, particularly Jake Bolby (Warner Richmond), who tries to silence her with violence.
Meanwhile, young Jennie Colton (Shirley Mills), just 12 years old, becomes a target of Bolby’s manipulation. After Jennie’s father dies, Bolby pressures her mother into allowing him to marry the girl, using threats and coercion. Though the marriage is later revealed to be illegal due to a recent law change, Bolby’s intentions are clear—and disturbing.
Ultimately, Jennie is rescued from her fate when Angelo the dwarf (Angelo Rossitto) intervenes with a shotgun, ending Bolby’s predatory pursuit.
Key Cast Performances
- Shirley Mills as Jennie Colton – In her film debut, Mills later starred in The Grapes of Wrath (1939).
- Diana Durrell as Miss Carol – The schoolteacher crusading against injustice.
- Warner Richmond as Jake Bolby – The villainous man seeking to marry a child.
- Bob Bollinger as Freddie Nulty – Jennie’s innocent companion.
- Angelo Rossitto as Angelo – A memorable character actor who appeared in films for decades.
Why This Film Still Raises Eyebrows
Child Bride is one of the most infamous examples of “educational exploitation” cinema. While its stated intent was to raise awareness of the lack of child marriage laws, its execution—particularly the extended nude swimming scene of a pre-teen—has led to ongoing ethical debates.
At the time, it bypassed the Motion Picture Production Code by marketing itself as a social commentary and being distributed independently. Critics, including those from Mystery Science Theater 3000, have called it one of the most disturbing films ever considered for satire.
The controversy surrounding the film helped it remain in circulation on the exploitation film circuit for years, though it is now widely condemned for its exploitative content despite its social message.
Watch or Download
Watch Child Bride (1938) – Full Movie (Public Domain):
Important Disclaimer
Child Bride (1938) is now in the public domain. However, it contains controversial and sensitive material, including depictions of child exploitation. Viewer discretion is strongly advised. This film is presented solely for historical, educational, and analytical purposes.
Tags:
Child Bride 1938, public domain movies, exploitation films, Shirley Mills, child marriage in film, 1930s drama, Harry Revier, Kroger Babb, controversial cinema, public domain drama film