The Young Racers (1963) in the PNW

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

This is a collection of media from the initial runs of "The Young Racers" (1963) in the Pacific Northwest. "Thunder in Carolina" (1960) was the second feature in Portland, while Seattle got one of my favorites "The Choppers" (1961).

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The Young Racers (1963)
"The Young Racers" is a film about the thrilling and dangerous world of Formula One racing, where speed, skill, and passion are put to the test. The film follows the rivalry and friendship between two drivers: Joe Machin, a reckless and arrogant American who will stop at nothing to win, and Stephen Children, a former racer turned writer who wants to expose Joe's dark secrets. Along the way, they encounter love, betrayal, and tragedy as they race across Europe's most famous circuits.
Director: Roger Corman
Writer: R. Wright Campbell
Stars: Mark Damon, William Campbell, Luana Anders

The Choppers (1961)
"The Choppers" is a film about a group of teenage car thieves who operate under the cover of a chicken truck. They steal cars and sell the parts to a shady junkyard owner, while evading the police and an insurance investigator. The film features Arch Hall Jr. as Cruiser, the leader of the gang, and his father Arch Hall Sr. as a reporter who tries to expose their crimes. The film also includes real footage of hot rod races and stunts.
Director: Leigh Jason
Writer: Arch Hall Sr.
Stars: Arch Hall Jr.Robert PagetBurr Middleton

Thunder in Carolina (1960)
"Thunder in Carolina" is a film that captures the excitement and drama of stock car racing in the late 1950s. Mitch Cooper, a veteran racer who suffers a career-ending injury and becomes a mentor to a young mechanic named Les York. Together, they face the challenges of the Southern 500, one of the most prestigious races in the country, while also dealing with personal issues such as romance, rivalry, and betrayal.
Director: Paul Helmick
Writer: Alexander Richards
Stars: Rory Calhoun, Alan Hale Jr, Connie Hines

July 23, 1963 ad (Portland)