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The Wild Rebels/Hell on Wheels (1967) in the PNW

Details: Written by: Mortado; Category: The 1960s in Northwest Cinemas; Hits: 433

This is a collection of media from the initial runs of "The Wild Rebels" (1967) in the Pacific Northwest. Seattle got Crown International's "Hell on Wheels" (1967) for the second while Portland got "Hot Rods to Hell" (1966).

Click on images for larger versions.

The Wild Rebels (1967)
"The Wild Rebels" is a 1967 crime drama that blends the thrill of stock car racing with the gritty world of outlaw biker gangs. The story follows Rod Tillman, a skilled race car driver who decides to leave the racing scene after a series of setbacks. His life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with a motorcycle gang known as "Satan's Angels." The gang, driven by their pursuit of excitement and chaos, recruits Rod to be their getaway driver for a series of daring heists.

As Rod becomes entangled with the gang, he faces moral dilemmas and dangerous situations that test his courage and resourcefulness. The film explores themes of loyalty, rebellion, and the allure of living on the edge. With its high-octane action sequences and tense moments, "The Wild Rebels" captures the spirit of 1960s counterculture while delivering a gripping narrative.
Director: William Grefé
Writer: William Grefé
Stars: Steve Alaimo, Willie Pastrano, John Vella

Hell on Wheels (1967)
"Hell on Wheels" is a 1967 action-packed drama that combines the high-speed world of stock car racing with family dynamics and crime. The story revolves around two brothers, Marty and Del, who share a passion for cars but find themselves at odds due to their contrasting personalities and life choices. Marty is a celebrated race car driver, admired for his skill and charisma, while Del is a talented mechanic who feels overshadowed by his brother's fame.

As tensions rise between the siblings, Del becomes entangled in a dangerous moonshine smuggling operation, using his mechanical expertise to modify cars for illegal activities. Meanwhile, their other brother, Steve, works as a law enforcement officer determined to dismantle the moonshine ring, creating a complex web of loyalty and conflict within the family.

The film also features musical performances by country music stars, adding a unique cultural layer to the narrative. With its blend of thrilling car chases, emotional family drama, and a touch of humor, "Hell on Wheels" captures the spirit of 1960s Americana and the allure of living life in the fast lane
Director: Will Zens
Writer: Wesley Cox
Stars: Marty Robbins, John Ashley, Gigi Perreau

August 25, 1967 ad (Seattle)

August 1, 1967 ad (Portland)

August 2, 1967 ad (Portland)

August 22, 1967 ad (Seattle)

August 23, 1967 ad (Seattle)

August 24, 1967 ad (Seattle)

The Wild Rebels (1967) poster

Hell on Wheels (1967) poster

The Wild Rebels (1967) trailer

Africa Addio (1966) in the PNW

Details: Written by: Mortado; Category: The 1960s in Northwest Cinemas; Hits: 394

This is a collection of media from the initial runs of "Africa Addio" (1966) in the Pacific Northwest.

Click on images for larger versions.

Africa Addio (1966)
"Africa Addio," directed by Gualtiero Jacopetti and Franco Prosperi, is a 1966 Italian documentary that explores the profound and tumultuous changes occurring in Africa during the post-colonial era. The film captures the continent at a pivotal moment, as European powers withdraw and newly independent nations grapple with self-governance challenges, cultural shifts, and socio-political upheaval.

The documentary juxtaposes scenes of celebration and liberation with stark depictions of the struggles accompanying decolonization. It delves into themes such as the redistribution of land, the impact of colonial legacies, and the tensions between traditional ways of life and modern influences. The filmmakers employ striking visuals and a dramatic score to underscore the gravity of the events unfolding across the continent.

While "Africa Addio" is known for its ambitious scope and vivid cinematography, it has also sparked significant controversy due to its portrayal of African societies and the ethical questions surrounding its production. The film remains a complex and polarizing piece of cinema, offering a window into a transformative period in Africa's history.
Directors: Gualtiero Jacopetti, Franco Prosperi
Writers: Gualtiero Jacopetti, Franco Prosperi
Stars: Sergio Rossi, Gualtiero Jacopetti, Jomo Kenyatta
Buy "Africa Addio" (1966) DVD on Amazon (SPONSORED)

September 13, 1967 ad (Portland)

July 5, 1967 ad (Seattle)

July 6, 1967 article (Seattle)

July 7, 1967 ad (Seattle)

September 12, 1967 ad (Portland)

September 15, 1967 article (Portland)

September 19, 1967 article (Portland)

September 19, 1967 ad (Portland)

Africa Addio (1966) poster

Africa Addio (1966) trailer
Buy "Africa Addio" (1966) DVD on Amazon (SPONSORED)

Castle of Evil (1966)/Blood Beast from Outer Space (1965)

Details: Written by: Mortado; Category: The 1960s in Northwest Cinemas; Hits: 642

This is a collection of media from the initial runs of "Castle of Evil" (1966) and "Blood Beast from Outer Space" (1965) in the Pacific Northwest. Portland got a bonus show of "Cyborg 2087" (1966) too!

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Castle of Evil (1966)
"Castle of Evil" is a classic horror film that blends mystery, suspense, and supernatural elements. The story revolves around a group of individuals summoned to a remote and eerie castle for the reading of a deceased millionaire's will. The millionaire, who had a notorious reputation and questionable dealings in life, leaves behind more than just his fortune—he leaves dark secrets and unresolved mysteries lurking within the castle's walls.

As the guests gather, tensions rise and suspicions grow. Each character brings their own motivations and ambitions, which are revealed as the plot unfolds. The castle itself plays a pivotal role, serving as a foreboding setting filled with hidden passages, eerie sounds, and an unsettling atmosphere. Its presence adds an almost living quality to the story, heightening the sense of dread and anticipation.

The film masterfully builds suspense, using shadowy visuals and haunting musical cues to keep the audience on edge. Themes of greed, betrayal, and justice weave throughout the narrative, making each character's fate uncertain as the layers of the mystery are peeled back. At its core, Castle of Evil examines the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of past actions.

Director: Francis D. Lyon
Writer: Charles A. Wallace
Stars: Scott Brady, Virginia Mayo, David Brian

Blood Beast from Outer Space (1965)
"Blood Beast from Outer Space" (originally titled "The Night Caller") is a British sci-fi horror film that fuses suspense with extraterrestrial intrigue. The story begins when a mysterious meteorite crashes onto Earth, drawing the attention of scientists and authorities. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that the object is not a simple space rock—it houses something far more sinister.

A group of researchers, led by a determined scientist, examines the alien artifact and discovers a strange, pulsating energy emanating from it. This energy seems to have the ability to influence human behavior, creating an atmosphere of paranoia and unease. At the same time, reports of strange disappearances in the nearby area raise questions about whether the alien presence is linked to these unsettling events.

The film masterfully builds tension as the characters grapple with the unknown. The narrative delves into themes of the human fear of the "other," the dangers of unchecked curiosity, and the ethical dilemmas of interacting with extraterrestrial life. The alien entity, while unseen for much of the film, looms large as an ominous and intelligent force, heightening the suspense and leaving the audience guessing about its intentions.

Director: John Gilling
Writers: Jim O'Connolly, Frank Crisp
Stars: John Saxon, Maurice Denham, Patricia Haines
Buy "Blood Beast from Outer Space" (1966) DVD on Amazon (SPONSORED)

Cyborg 2087 (1966)
"Cyborg 2087" is a thought-provoking science fiction film that explores themes of freedom, individuality, and the consequences of technological control. The story begins in the year 2087, where society is under the rule of an authoritarian regime that uses advanced technology to suppress free thought and enforce conformity. In this dystopian future, individualism has become a distant memory, and human progress is dictated by those in power.

The narrative takes a dramatic turn when a cyborg named Garth A7 is sent back in time to 1966 with a critical mission to prevent the creation of the mind-control technology that led to humanity's oppression. Garth is a cybernetic being who has been enhanced with mechanical abilities, but beneath his exterior, he retains human qualities and emotions. His journey is fraught with challenges as he navigates the unfamiliar environment of the past while evading those who seek to stop him.

As the film unfolds, Garth encounters allies and enemies, and his interactions reveal the moral complexities of his mission. Questions about the cost of progress, the ethics of technological advancement, and the balance between security and freedom are central to the story. The film uses its science fiction premise to delve into deeper philosophical and social issues, making it more than just a tale of futuristic adventure.

Director: Franklin Adreon
Writer: Arthur C. Pierce
Stars: Michael Rennie, Karen Steele, Wendell Corey
Buy "Cyborg 2087" (1966) bluray on Amazon (SPONSORED)
Buy "Cyborg 2087" (1966) DVD on Amazon (SPONSORED)

July 26, 1967 ad (Portland)

July 27, 1967 ad (Portland)

April 23, 1968 ad (Seattle)

April 24, 1968 ad (Seattle)

April 25, 1968 ad (Seattle)

Castle of Evil (1966) poster

Blood Beast from Outer Space (1965) poster

Cyborg 2087 (1966) poster

Castle of Evil (1966) trailer

Cyborg 2087 (1966) trailer
Buy "Cyborg 2087" (1966) bluray on Amazon (SPONSORED)
Buy "Cyborg 2087" (1966) DVD on Amazon (SPONSORED)

The Reluctant Astronaut (1967) in the PNW

Details: Written by: Mortado; Category: The 1960s in Northwest Cinemas; Hits: 305

This is a collection of media from the initial runs of "The Reluctant Astronaut" (1967) in the Pacific Northwest.

Click on images for larger versions.

The Reluctant Astronaut (1967)
"The Reluctant Astronaut" is a comedy film starring Don Knotts as Roy Fleming, a timid and slightly inept individual who works as an operator at a carnival ride designed to mimic space travel. Despite his lack of confidence and modest aspirations, Roy's father, an ambitious man who believes in his son's potential, secretly enrolls him in NASA's astronaut program.

When Roy is summoned to report for duty, he assumes he has been chosen to participate as an astronaut for a space mission. Unbeknownst to him, his real assignment is far less glamorous. As the story unfolds, Roy navigates the challenges of his new role with his characteristic blend of anxiety, self-doubt, and accidental heroism.

The film humorously explores Roy's efforts to rise to the occasion, tackling his fears and learning to adapt to an environment far outside his comfort zone. Filled with slapstick humor, misunderstandings, and heartwarming moments, the film showcases Roy's journey as he wrestles with his insecurities and begins to prove himself in surprising ways. It's a story that blends comedy with themes of perseverance and self-discovery, all set against the backdrop of the space race era.

Director: Edward Montagne
Writers: James Fritzell, Everett Greenbaum
Stars: Don Knotts, Leslie Nielsen, Joan Freeman
Buy "The Reluctant Astronaut" (1967) bluray on Amazon (SPONSORED)
Buy "The Reluctant Astronaut" (1967) DVD on Amazon (SPONSORED)

June 27, 1967 ad (Seattle)