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Movie poster: American Hot Wax (1978)
🎬 Movie

American Hot Wax

1978 · 91 min Drama History Music
5.6 / 10 · TMDB

This is the story loosely based on Cleveland disc jockey Alan Freed, who introduced rock'n'roll to teenage American radio audiences in the 1950s. Freed was a source of great controversy: criticized by conservatives for corrupting youth with the "devil's music"; hated by racists for promoting African American music for white consumption; persecuted by law enforcement officials and finally brought down by the "payola" scandals.

📋 Film Details

Year 1978
Country United States of America
Genre Drama, History, Music
Director Floyd Mutrux
Runtime 91 min.
Rating TMDB: 5.6/10 (19 votes)

📺 Where to Watch

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🎬 MovieFinder's Take

The film constructs a vibrant portrait of an era through the figure of Alan Freed, relying on the raw energy of the music itself as its primary narrative force. It explores the clash between creative freedom and the establishment eager to suppress it.

What lingers after the final reel is the electric charge of a cultural big bang and the human cost of being its catalyst. — MovieFinder Editorial

Director: Floyd Mutrux

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Best Watched

Watch it in the evening, tuned into the vibe of vintage radio, to catch the rhythm and rebellious spirit.

🎭 Cast

Tim McIntire

Tim McIntire

Alan Freed

Fran Drescher

Fran Drescher

Sheryl

Jay Leno

Jay Leno

Mookie

Laraine Newman

Laraine Newman

Teenage Louise

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Carl Weaver

Member of The Chesterfields

Al Chalk

Al Chalk

Member of The Chesterfields

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Sam Harkness

Member of The Chesterfields

Arnold McCuller

Arnold McCuller

Member of The Chesterfields

Jeff Altman

Jeff Altman

Lennie Richfield

Moosie Drier

Moosie Drier

Artie Moress

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💬 Audience Reviews

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