Riot on Sunset Strip (1967) in the PNW

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

This is a collection of media from the initial runs of "Riot on Sunset Strip" (1964) in the Pacific Northwest. "The Wild Angels" (1966) returned as the second feature.

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Riot on Sunset Strip (1967)
"Riot on Sunset Strip" is a drama film set against the vibrant and tumultuous backdrop of the 1960s counterculture in Los Angeles. The film delves into the lives of a group of teenagers who hang out on the famous Sunset Strip, a hotspot for the burgeoning music scene, youth rebellion, and social change. The narrative centers around the tensions between the rebellious youth and the authorities, highlighting their generational conflict and misunderstandings.

The story follows a dedicated police sergeant caught in this clash. As he tries to maintain order on the Strip, he faces challenges posed by the youths' defiance and desire for freedom. At the same time, the sergeant's teenage daughter gets involved with the rebellious crowd, adding a personal dimension to his struggle.

The film captures the spirit of the era, showcasing the music, fashion, and attitudes that defined 1960s youth culture. It also addresses the social issues of the time, such as the quest for identity, the impact of rock 'n' roll, and the desire for social change. By portraying the events leading up to the riots on Sunset Strip, the film offers a snapshot of a pivotal moment in American history.

Director: Arthur Dreifuss
Writer: Orville H. Hampton
Stars: Aldo Ray, Mimsy Farmer, Michael Evans
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The Wild Angels (1966)
"The Wild Angels" is a seminal biker film directed by Roger Corman, capturing the rebellious spirit and counterculture of the 1960s. The movie stars Peter Fonda as Heavenly Blues, the leader of the Hell's Angels motorcycle gang in Southern California, and Nancy Sinatra as his girlfriend, Mike.

The plot kicks into gear when Blues and his gang set out to reclaim a stolen motorcycle belonging to fellow gang member, Loser, played by Bruce Dern. Their journey spirals into chaos and violence, reflecting the anarchic lifestyle of the outlaw bikers. After a confrontation with the police, Loser is critically injured, prompting the gang to stage a daring rescue from the hospital.

The film delves into the internal dynamics of the gang, showcasing their loyalty, camaraderie, and the darker aspects of their defiance against societal norms. The narrative crescendos with a funeral for Loser, which devolves into a wild, hedonistic wake that epitomizes the gang’s rejection of conventional values.

"The Wild Angels" is notable for its raw and unfiltered depiction of the biker subculture, complete with gritty cinematography and a pulsating rock soundtrack. The performances by Fonda and Sinatra anchor the film, providing a stark portrayal of characters who live by their own rules, no matter the cost. The movie's impact on the genre is significant, setting the stage for future biker films and encapsulating a slice of 1960s Americana.

Director: Roger Corman
Writers: Charles B. Griffith, Peter Bogdanovich
Stars: Peter Fonda, Nancy Sinatra, Bruce Dern
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March 8, 1967 ad (Portland)