Baby Doll - Definition

Baby Doll is a 1956 film which tells the story of a childlike bride-to-be engaged to a Southern cotton gin owner, who becomes the pawn in a battle between her fiance and his enemy. It stars Karl Malden, Carroll Baker, Eli Wallach and Mildred Dunnock.

The movie was written by Tennessee Williams and directed by Elia Kazan.

It was nominated for Academy Awards for Best Actress in a Leading Role (Carroll Baker), Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Mildred Dunnock), Best Cinematography, Black-and-White and Best Writing, Best Screenplay - Adapted.While the costume design was not nominated,the film is credited with both the name and originating the popularity of the babydoll nightgown,which derives from the costume worn by Baker's character.

The Legion of Decency succeeded in having the film withdrawn from release in most U.S. theaters because of their objections over its sexual themes.