It might seem odd to give this modest movie such a high score, but it is so well crafted and now in retrospect so fascinating, it is far more entertaining than much bigger and "important" movies made today.
First off, there is the insane-but-real setting of figure 8 racing, where racers speed across each others' paths at the track intersection. Just seeing such a crazy real-life sport enacted is worth watching PIT STOP!
Next, we have a layered story, with contrasting character arcs for "hero" Rick and heel Hawk (a career-best performance by the late, great Sid Haig).
The performances are great, with Brian Donlevy lending the same amoral tough-guy gravitas he brought to the Quatermas movies, and an early appearance by Ellen Burstyn.
And Kustom Kulture fans will also appreciate the on-location views of George Barris' car shop (the creator of the 1966 Batmobile, Munsters Coach, Monkeymobile, and many other showcars).
A real gem from the time when the American Grindhouse was taking cues from Euro Art House.
First off, there is the insane-but-real setting of figure 8 racing, where racers speed across each others' paths at the track intersection. Just seeing such a crazy real-life sport enacted is worth watching PIT STOP!
Next, we have a layered story, with contrasting character arcs for "hero" Rick and heel Hawk (a career-best performance by the late, great Sid Haig).
The performances are great, with Brian Donlevy lending the same amoral tough-guy gravitas he brought to the Quatermas movies, and an early appearance by Ellen Burstyn.
And Kustom Kulture fans will also appreciate the on-location views of George Barris' car shop (the creator of the 1966 Batmobile, Munsters Coach, Monkeymobile, and many other showcars).
A real gem from the time when the American Grindhouse was taking cues from Euro Art House.