STUNT ROCK (1978) Directed by Brian Trenchard-Smith
Code Red DVD
THE FILM
Maybe you should just go and see it now. Nothing I can say will prepare you for the epic whirl of rock and stunts that is Stunt Rock!
Actually, maybe some words might help...because I think the trailer and the concept can distract people away. Make them expect one movie that isn't really there and ignore the awesome movie that is right before them. A movie full of stunts and rock, yes. But, also full of...Actually, it's mainly stunts and rock.
Grant Page, Australian stuntman, comes to Los Angeles, circa 1978, to be the Head Stunt Guy on a TV Show called Undercover Girl. His cousin is part of the stage show for a local rock band called Sorcery. The movie cuts between Grant performing stunts, talking about stunts (which we see) and Sorcery live on stage. It is a 95-minute rush of a film. And, even though I'm talking about Code Red's Primo 2-DVD edition, it needs to be seen on the big screen. That's the best way to enjoy it because it is a rush of images and music and then it's over...and you leave the theater and you're not sure what you've watched.
But, in my case, I wanted to watch it again. And, I was rewarded. The film does have a structure. In the scene where Grant arrives at LAX, the Prince of Darkness (his cousin) says that Sorcery is playing three shows starting the next night. The next day, Grant begins work on the TV show. The movie ends at the climax of the third show. A lot happens in that time. Some romance, a few parties, wizard and demon fighting, a lot of footage of stunts (including awesome stuff from Gone In 60 Seconds) and, yes, some fire being thrown around.
I don't think one viewing can do this film justice. You need to watch it once to shake out what you think it is going to be. Then, you need to watch it again to assimilate its majesty. Brian Trenchard-Smith is a smart filmmaker making a raucous movie. So, trust him and it all reveals itself.
And, the music is great.*
And, the stunts are awesome.
That's all you need.
AUDIO AND VIDEO
Turn it up! Your nuts will fly off! If you don't have nuts, watch it with a friend who has them and enjoy the display! The film is 2:35.1 and uses every inch of the frame. I couldn't imagine watching this pan and scan. Code Red did a great job with it. The Australian DVD is a bit ghosty here and there but that could be something to do with my TV.
EXTRAS
My Lord...
Two commentaries: The director, Grant and Margaret Gerard (reporter in the movie and T-S's wife). A very entertaining commentary between three smart people who have a lot to say.
The second one is Mr. Trenchard-Smith again, the producer and Richard Blackbun (who plays the slimy agent). Mr. Blackburn and the Producer have some interesting things to say. But, the best part of this one is the extra stuff the director adds. This one works in the same way as the second commentary on the Don't Go In The Woods DVD. (James Bryan talks on one by himself. The second one has fans asking him questions. The second one adds all sorts of extra things I was wondering about by the end of the first one.) Mr. T-S's talk fills us in on where Grant is and some other pertinent info that didn't get hit on in the first one. Nicely done.
There are interviews (in-person and on the phone), a trailer, a Cannes Clip Reel and an hour-long show called The Stunt Men and more. This disc is loaded. Spend a day and watch it all. You'll be glad you did.
The one thing I missed was a third disc with the Soundtrack.
FINAL THOUGHTS
It's not quite what you might expect. But, it is fun and incredibly charming. You'll have a big smile on your face and want to watch it again. Then, you'll want to show it to your friends and have a Sorcery Party. How many more crazy movies are there like this? Send them to me care of "Crazy Movies For Dan".
*Although, there is something strange about seeing the members of Sorcery in the backing band during the rock scenes in Rocktober Blood.
— Dan Budnik, 02.25.10 | 
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