Van Nuys Blvd.

Watch Van Nuys Blvd.

"The Greatest Cruisin' in the Land Takes Place on the Street - Where it all Began..."
  • R
  • 1979
  • 1 hr 33 min
  • 5.1  (606)

Van Nuys Blvd. is a fun and energetic coming-of-age film from 1979 that tells the story of a group of teenagers who spend their time cruising up and down the titular stretch of road in Southern California. The film is a love letter to car culture and the freedom that comes with being a teenager in the late 70s. The central characters are Bobby (Bill Adler) and his girlfriend Moon (Cynthia Wood). Bobby is a young man with a deep love of cars, and he spends most of his time tinkering with his ride and cruising down the boulevard. Moon is his spunky girlfriend who shares his passion for cars and loves nothing more than spending time with Bobby.

The film takes place over the course of a single day as Bobby and Moon drive up and down Van Nuys Blvd., encountering a cast of colorful characters along the way. There's Wimp (Dennis Bowen), a hapless teenager who is desperate to lose his virginity; Chooch (David Hayward), a hot-headed gang leader who always seems to be getting into trouble; and Hot Dog (Melissa Prophet), a beautiful girl with a reputation for being promiscuous.

Despite the film's focus on cars and cruising, there is a definite sense of nostalgia for a simpler time that permeates throughout. The world of Van Nuys Blvd. is one where teenagers are free to roam and explore, where small pleasures like a good burger or a beautiful sunset are enough to keep them happy. There is a real sense of community among the characters and a feeling of camaraderie that comes from sharing a common love of cars and cruising.

While the film is certainly light-hearted and fun, there are moments of real emotion and depth that elevate it beyond a simple slice-of-life story. Bobby and Moon's relationship is at the heart of the film and provides a real anchor for the audience. They are both filled with a sense of youthful passion and optimism that is infectious, and their chemistry is palpable.

The film's soundtrack is also a standout feature, featuring classic hits from the 70s like "Stayin' Alive," "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting," and "Do You Wanna Dance?" The music helps to transport the audience back in time and captures the feeling of cruising down Van Nuys Blvd. with the windows down and the volume cranked up.

Overall, Van Nuys Blvd. is a charming and enjoyable film that captures a moment in time and celebrates the joys of being young and free. It may not be a cinematic masterpiece, but it is a film that is sure to bring a smile to your face and leave you feeling nostalgic for a simpler time.

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Description
  • Release Date
    1979
  • MPAA Rating
    R
  • Runtime
    1 hr 33 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    5.1  (606)