Watch The Cool and the Crazy

The movie The Cool and the Crazy, released in 1958, is a classic example of a juvenile delinquent film genre that was popular in the mid-20th century. Directed by William Witney, the movie stars Scott Marlowe as Michael, a rebellious high school student who leads a gang of troubled youths in a small town. Richard Bakalyan plays his best friend, Frankie, and Gigi Perreau plays Connie, Michael's girlfriend.

The movie takes place in the late 1950s when teenage delinquency was a growing concern in American society. The Cool and the Crazy explores the root causes of juvenile delinquency, such as broken homes, poverty, and a lack of parental guidance. Michael's mother is an alcoholic, and his father is absent. Consequently, he feels alienated and finds solace in his gang, which provides him with a sense of belonging and identity.

The movie opens with Michael and his gang breaking into a store and stealing soda pop. They also vandalize the place and cause extensive damage. The police catch up with them, but they manage to escape. However, the incident sets off a chain of events that leads to the gang's downfall. Michael and his friends become increasingly reckless and violent, engaging in a series of criminal activities such as stealing cars, breaking into homes, and fighting other gangs.

The Cool and the Crazy portrays its characters as complex individuals with their own motivations and struggles. Michael is not a one-dimensional villain; he is a troubled teenager who is acting out because he feels misunderstood and neglected. He is also fiercely loyal to his friends and will do anything to protect them. Frankie is a timid boy who is easily influenced by Michael's charisma and leadership skills. He is also in a difficult situation at home, as his father is abusive and his mother is sick.

Connie is the only character who provides some hope and optimism in the movie. She is a sensible and compassionate girl who cares deeply about Michael and Frankie. She tries to steer them away from trouble and encourages them to focus on their studies and plan for the future. However, her efforts are often in vain as the boys are too caught up in their delinquent lifestyle.

The Cool and the Crazy also features some impressive cinematography for a low-budget B-movie. The movie captures the mood and atmosphere of small-town America in the 1950s, with its diners, gas stations, and drive-in theaters. The soundtrack is also noteworthy, featuring songs by rock and roll pioneers such as Chuck Berry and Fats Domino.

In conclusion, The Cool and the Crazy is a well-crafted and influential film that explores the themes of teenage rebellion, delinquency, and social disaffection. It is a movie that still resonates with audiences today, as it raises important questions about the challenges facing young people in our society. The film's lead actors deliver strong performances, and the cinematography and soundtrack contribute to the movie's authenticity and realism. The Cool and the Crazy is a must-see for fans of classic cinema and anyone interested in the history of youth culture in America.

The Cool and the Crazy is a 1958 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.1.