Bikini Drive-In

"Bikini Drive-In" is a delightful and light-hearted romp that captures the essence of carefree summer fun. This retro-inspired comedy, directed by Fred Olen Ray, takes viewers on a wild ride filled with humor, bikini-clad beauties, and a dash of nostalgia that will have you grinning from ear to ear.

The film's premise is simple and cheeky - a struggling drive-in theater, owned by the affable Jeff (played by the charming Blake Bahner), faces imminent foreclosure. In a desperate attempt to save the beloved venue, Jeff and his friends come up with the wild idea of turning it into a bikini drive-in, featuring swimsuit-clad attendants, as a ploy to attract more customers. The ensuing antics and misadventures that follow make for a hilarious and entertaining plot.

What makes "Bikini Drive-In" a joy to watch is its unapologetic embrace of nostalgia for the '80s and the golden era of drive-in theaters. The film's retro charm is evident in its music, fashion, and the general vibe, which will transport viewers back to a simpler time when drive-ins were the place to be. This nostalgic element is a warm and inviting aspect of the movie, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a dose of retro entertainment.

The ensemble cast, including the vivacious Michelle Bauer and the charismatic Gunnar Hansen, deliver performances that perfectly fit the tone of the film. Their chemistry adds to the humor and charm of "Bikini Drive-In," and you'll find yourself rooting for these characters as they strive to save their beloved drive-in.

The film's comedic timing is spot on, and it's filled with lighthearted and entertaining gags that keep the laughter flowing throughout. It's a refreshing departure from more serious and somber movies, offering a welcome escape into a world of laughter and lighthearted fun.

Fred Olen Ray's direction ensures that the film maintains its focus on entertainment and fun. He crafts a breezy and entertaining narrative that never takes itself too seriously, allowing the audience to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

The soundtrack and classic tunes featured in "Bikini Drive-In" add to its overall appeal, enhancing the experience with catchy melodies that complement the lighthearted atmosphere.

"Bikini Drive-In" is a throwback to a bygone era of cinema that celebrates the joy of summer, friendship, and good-natured humor. It's a film that doesn't ask for much, but it delivers a whole lot of fun. So, if you're in the mood for a feel-good, nostalgic escape, "Bikini Drive-In" is the perfect choice for a carefree movie night that will leave you with a smile on your face.

The basis for this review is the 2023 Blu-ray.

Fred Olen Ray fans will be very happy; the results he achieved with this restoration are stunning. The movie looks like it was shot yesterday. Colors that were dull and muddy on the old version now pop. The clumpy grain and pixelation that marred the old DVD? Gone, replaced by a clean and crisp image, one that has not been DNR'd to death. The original 4x3 aspect ratio has been preserved, so no worries about image cropping. Frankly, I've seen releases by big Hollywood studios that didn't look anywhere near as good as this. Mr. Ray did not ignore the sound quality, either. Dialogue is clear, and the under appreciated soundtrack can be heard in all its glory. The movie is also completely uncut and uncensored. And oh, boy...it's a veritable feast for the eyes, featuring an impressive roster of early 90s T&A actresses.

"Bikini Drive-In" is a 1993 incarnation of an old trope: a failing business that is saved by the timely intervention of a group of attractive women. It's simple, effective, and provides the groundwork for ninety minutes of goofy, sexy fun. One scene in particular, featuring Michelle Bauer and Richard Gabai, exemplifies this. Trust me, you'll know it when you see it.

I couldn't write a review for this film and not mention Sarah Bellomo, of "Beach Babes From Beyond" fame. She's hotter than Texas asphalt during a heat wave in August.

Do not ignore the special features; every single one of them is worth a look. The commentary track with Fred Ray and Richard Gabai is both funny and interesting. I would argue that this is one of Mr. Ray's best movies, and one of the best discs released under the Retromedia label. Highly recommended. Hopefully, he will do the same for "Bikini Airways" one day.

Searching to find a decent movie about drive-in theatres or movies that have a main plot around a drive-ins, I read about this one on the IMDB I was pleasantly surprised after watching it. The plot consists of the main character named Kim who inherits a drive-in theatre from her late Grandfather. In order to turn a profit, she enlists the help of her bodacious girlfriends to help turn the theatre around and generate some publicity which in turn makes the theatre one of the hot spots of LA. It's light entertainment, and has some funny moments in it. On the whole, it's an entertaining movie through and through with some good natured humour thrown in.

I watch a lot of Fred Olen Ray. A satirical take on 80's (?) end of drive-in culture before the fall of the Berlin Wall (yes this is a plot point). Nice flick with friends.

Bikini Drive-In features most of the actors from "Dinosaur Island" (Peter Spellos, Ross Hagen, Richard Gabai, Michelle Bauer) plus some straight-to-cable softcore veterans like Ashley Rhey. It follows the classic STSWB (save the something with breasts) plot: Girl inherits grandpa's drive in, must raise money in limited time to keep it, dreams up idea of letting girls in bikinis work there. Sound familiar? You probably haven't seen this movie, but you've seen one like it. I give it a solid B for many laughable parts and lots of skin. Skin-O-Max master Fred Olen Ray directs this flick.