Hell's Angels

This program gives you a complete look at the history of the Hell's Angels: both the good and the bad, the innocent and not-so-innocent. I was surprised, frankly, that there were so many "up" facets to the group and also that some of "downs" were worse than I thought. In other words, after watching this show you may think better or worse of the Hell's Angels than you originally did.

Few people remember or know that this group was founded by young World War II veterans who simply missed the camaraderie of their fellow soldiers and the exciting life. They didn't want trouble; just a place to hang out with their bikes, have a few beers and shoot the bull.

One thing, however, led to another, and this program gives us all the details - all the various bikers who eventually comprised "Hell's Angels" or competing groups.

Since IMDb is a film board, it might be worth noting that the 1953 film "The Wild One" had a big impact on bikers and how they were perceived. It also inspired the leadership of the most controversial figure in Hell's Angels history - Sonny Barger, and his tale is told in this interesting TV show.

There is a ton of material in this hour-long special and most of it pretty interesting. It's recommended, even for non-bikers like me.