Deadman's Curve

This is the true story of pop stars Jan Berry and Dean Torrence-Jan and Dean. I never heard of them until this movie came out in 1978. It shattered all movie-of-the-week films up to that time. After seeing this, I bought all the albums available and was lucky enough to see them live 3-4 times between 1980-1985. I received their autographs shortly before Jan's passing in 2004. Richard Hatch played an outstanding role as Jan. His portrayal as Jan after his accident is remarkable. Bruce Davison as Dean is equally as good. He resembles him quite a bit. Richard Hatch and Bruce Davison actually sang "Barbara Ann" for the movie soundtrack! This movie has all the great Jan and Dean songs. This is one of the best biography movies about rock stars ever.

I remember watching this on or near when it came out and absolutely loved it. I have been a fan of Richard Hatch and Bruce Davidson since then and even a bit before this show aired. Their performances in this movie really MAKE the movie.

The one scene that will always stick in my mind is when Richard Hatch's character (Jan Berry) has just been discovered by the audience to be lip-syncing to one of their songs. What he does to bring them back from the brink of getting up and walking out (or worse!) is truly awe inspiring.

Hope I can find this movie on DVD or even VHS if at all possible as it would be one to own in my opinion!

I saw this movie as a young adult and, unfortunately have not seen it since. I was not familiar with their story but knew and loved their music. Dead Man's Curve has haunted and inspired me for many years and I highly recommend the movie. I thought it was well acted by everyone and the storyline is compelling. There is truly no other movie like this one and it is true! One should definitely see this movie, if for no other reason than to see the ending - it is both incredible and inspiring.

Hollywood has produced many movies that tell the story of strength growing out of misfortune or human error, redemption rising from the ashes of despair and tragedy. It is my view that this movie tells this story as good as any and better than most. The truth that haunts the storyline creates a compelling and engrossing experience.

Dean Torrence, played by Bruce Davison is such a good friend to ego maniac Jan Berry, played by Richard Hatch, that Berry's constant abuse of Dean, is difficult to watch. The music, from the garage spawned "Jennie Lee", to their surf sounds and beyond, is a highlight of "Deadman's Curve". The movie features a nice assortment of 50s and 60s cars throughout, including some memorable Corvettes. Jan's rehabilitation becomes somewhat tedious, dragging the second half down a notch. Nevertheless as a time capsule, the film succeeds quite nicely. The "bring out the handkerchiefs" ending is unexpected, and quite effective. - MERK

Deadman's Curve (also known as The California Kid) is a 1978 television movie that dramatizes the tragic and complex story of Jan Berry and Dean Torrence, the famous surf rock duo Jan and Dean. The film delves into their rise to fame in the early 1960s, their impact on the surf music scene, and the personal struggles they faced along the way.

One of the movie's central themes is the tragic car accident in 1966 that left Jan Berry with severe brain damage and how it affected both his career and personal life. Richard Hatch delivers a strong performance as Jan, portraying the emotional and physical toll of Berry's recovery journey. Bruce Davison also shines as Dean, capturing the emotional burden of supporting his friend while grappling with the duo's fading fame.

The film does a solid job of balancing the upbeat, fun aspects of Jan and Dean's music with the darker undercurrents of their lives, giving viewers a more rounded understanding of the challenges they faced. The movie is nostalgic for fans of 1960s music, with a soundtrack that evokes the era's iconic surf sound.

However, because it was made for television, the production value is somewhat limited, and certain dramatic moments might feel a bit melodramatic by today's standards. But the film's heart and sincerity make it a compelling watch, especially for those interested in the music and cultural history of that period. Overall, Deadman's Curve is a touching, if somewhat tragic, portrayal of the highs and lows of rock 'n' roll stardom.