The Wild Angels (1966)/The Girl-Getters (1964) 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 Wild Angels" (1966) and "The Girl-Getters" (1964) in the Pacific Northwest.

Click on images for larger versions.

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
Buy "The Wild Angels" (1966) bluray on Amazon (SPONSORED)
Buy "The Wild Angels" (1966) DVD on Amazon (SPONSORED)

The Girl-Getters (1964)
"The Girl-Getters," also known as "The System," is a British drama directed by Michael Winner that delves into the lives and relationships of a group of young men living in a coastal resort town. The film stars Oliver Reed as Tinker, the charismatic and cynical leader of the group who makes a living by photographing tourists.

Set against the backdrop of the swinging 60s, the film follows Tinker and his friends as they navigate the summer season, using their charm and wit to seduce female tourists. They treat their romantic escapades as a game, with Tinker orchestrating the group's efforts with a blend of detachment and manipulation.

The arrival of Nicola, a sophisticated and independent woman played by Jane Merrow, challenges Tinker's worldview. As Tinker becomes romantically involved with Nicola, he finds himself grappling with deeper emotions and the complexities of genuine affection. The film explores themes of love, exploitation, and the search for meaning amidst a hedonistic lifestyle.

"The Girl-Getters" offers a snapshot of 1960s youth culture, capturing the era's carefree spirit and underlying tensions. The performances, particularly by Reed, bring depth to the characters, highlighting the conflict between the pursuit of pleasure and the desire for something more substantial. The film's nuanced portrayal of relationships and its reflection on the transient nature of youth make it a compelling and thought-provoking drama.

Director: Michael Winner
Writer: Peter Draper
Stars: Oliver Reed, Jane Merrow, Barbara Ferris
Buy "The Girl-Getters" (AKA "The System," 1964) bluray on Amazon (SPONSORED)
Buy "The Girl-Getters" (AKA "The System," 1964) DVD on Amazon (SPONSORED)

August 14, 1966 ad (Seattle)