This movie was well ahead of its time. The issues that it dealt with are relevant even today and therefore the movie doesn't feel dated even though it was released in 1948.
Most of the movie has a sad feel to it as both the protagonists seem to be undergoing deep psychological crisis. The girl is suicidal and as the movie progresses we understand why she feels that way. The boy is also trying to find his footing in life. Alone and confused, he acutely feels the need for a partner but can't commit to the girl since wherever he goes with her, there are reminders of her not-so-perfect past. And any sane person would tell you that two such volatile personalities would be a disastrous combination. But, this film makes us realize that life can be ironic sometimes. Therefore, even though the highly-trained social worker and the mother did everything (in their own way) to help her, what the girl really needed was a kindred spirit; someone as broken as she was. The fact that the boy ultimately got over his initial reservations about the girl's past and accepted her, was what saved her from ultimate destruction. The girl also got over her cynicism and disillusionment that she was only good for one thing. She realized that she had more to offer. And as a first, they decide to stay put & fight their demons together: the girl's past & the boy's insecurity.
The movie shows a gradual character development of both characters. Their metamorphosis is beautiful and believable, and gives us hope that sometimes even lost ships find a port!
Review of Port of Call
