Watch The Savage Seven

The Savage Seven is a 1968 biker film that blends elements of action, drama, and the counterculture movement that was prominent during the late 1960s. Directed by Richard Rush, who later gained acclaim for his work on films such as "The Stunt Man," this exploitation flick captures the spirit of rebellion and restlessness that defined a generation. The movie features a relatively young cast with actors such as Robert Walker Jr., Joanna Frank, and John Garwood playing pivotal roles.

The film revolves around a gang of motorcycle-riding outlaws known as The Savage Seven. These bikers are the epitome of the era’s countercultural fixation with freedom, nonconformity, and an almost anarchic rejection of societal norms. The story kicks into gear as the gang rolls into a small town, with nothing but their bikes and a desire for entertainment and maybe a little trouble. As expected, their arrival does not go unnoticed, and tensions quickly rise between the bikers and the local populace.

Robert Walker Jr. stars as the gang's de facto leader, a man whose charismatic presence and deep sense of loyalty to his brothers in arms define his character. Walker Jr.’s portrayal brings a nuanced depth to the rebellious archetype, showing a man who is torn between his free-spirited nature and the darker consequences of his lifestyle. Alongside him are Joanna Frank and John Garwood, who contribute to the dynamic within the gang and have their parts to play in the unfolding drama.

As the bikers settle into the town, they encounter a diverse cast of characters, each with their own story. There are the townspeople, weary and wary of these intruders, and there are others who are drawn to the excitement and danger the gang brings. Amongst the latter is a young Native American woman whose involvement with the bikers sparks a subplot touching on themes of racism and cultural misunderstanding that were prevalent at the time.

The Savage Seven paints a turbulent picture of the collision between freedom-seeking individuals and established society. Through a series of events, the film explores the implications of the bikers’ lifestyle - the camaraderie, the violence, the sense of aimlessness, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. The thrilling action sequences, which are a staple of the genre, feature prominently, with well-choreographed motorcycle stunts, fights, and chases that capture the raw energy and danger of the biker culture.

Director Rush does not shy away from portraying the darker sides of the biker lifestyle either. From bar brawls to territorial disputes with rival gangs, the film delves into the consequences of living life on the edge of society. The interactions among the gang members, the locals, and law enforcement serve to highlight the societal clashes of the era.

In addition, the film's depiction of the bikers showcases both the individualism and the sometimes misguided sense of invincibility that characterized the youthful rebellious spirit of the late '60s. Amidst this chaotic backdrop, there are moments of introspection and commentary on the sociopolitical issues of the time, giving the film a degree of depth beyond mere action and entertainment.

The Savage Seven is also notable for its soundtrack, which incorporates music evocative of the era. Featuring rock-and-roll and psychedelic tunes, the soundtrack serves to amplify the film's atmosphere and helps immerse the viewer in the world of these nomadic outsiders.

Visually, the film can be described as a product of its time, with a stylistic approach that blends gritty realism with the vibrant excesses of the period's aesthetics. The depiction of the raw, often brutal, biker lifestyle is balanced with moments of poignant beauty and the alluring freedom of the open road.

In sum, The Savage Seven is a film that captures a snapshot of late 1960s counterculture through the lens of a biker gang narrative. It provides audiences with a raw and vivid portrayal of a subculture that, at the time, captured the imaginations of many and epitomized a national mood of rebellion and questioning of traditional values. The film stands as a symbol of its time, offering both a reflection on and a critique of the era's social dynamics, as well as a dose of pure, adrenaline-fueled entertainment.

The Savage Seven is a 1968 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4.