New Englanders claim it is a unique and original American sport. Southern boys agree, but argue over just where in America it began. Sociologists see the roots of this sort of mechanical mayhem and wanton destructiveness in the thrill-seeking, rabble-rousing entertainments of ancient Rome. Pure Americana or Classical derivative, "DEMO DERBY" has a special place in movie history.
In the summer of 1964, "DEMO DERBY" opened in Boston with Frank Sinatra and friends in "ROBIN AND THE SEVEN HOODS." That same day, in Hartford, New Haven and Worcester, it opened with Elvis Presley in "VIVA LAS VEGAS." Then, in the next ten days, it was booked into 61 theaters all across New England and later, paired with The Beatles "A HARD DAY'S NIGHT," it played on thousands of screens more screens all across the country. And after its spectacular first run, it continued to be booked into theaters and drive-ins for TEN MORE YEARS!
If you remember Madras shorts, penny loafers and crew cuts, don't be surprised if "DEMO DERBY" brings a smile. It is so real — so us — that by the time the show is over, you may have to look outside to be sure your old jalopy isn't still there. So, turn your DVD player into a time machine and buckle up for a wild ride down memory lane. "DEMO DERBY" and The Beatles "HARD DAY'S NIGHT?" Awesome!
WARNING: We of the sixties generation have been romanticized for our rebellious idealism. Unless you want your children and grandchildren to know just how incredibly naïve and innocent we really were, KEEP THIS DVD UNDER LOCK AND KEY!
For more about this incredible short feature, visit http://www.travisedwardpike.com/PikeFilms.html, or buy it at https://www.cdtdigital.com/otherworldcottageindustries/items/products.php?category=104.
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