Deadman's Curve

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.

The California Surf Scene was captured perfectly in this otherwise totally 70s "Jan & Dean Story". Unfortunately the film focuses almost exclusively on Jan Barry's super-inflated ego and apparent personality flaws. Crediting only himself and his "gift" for the success of "Jan & Dean", Jan soon alienates himself from almost all people who care for him. Figuring he is a "big star" and should be exempt from the military draft, Jan huffs and puffs at a recruiting officer, the storms off, with the scene ending in the infamous "Dead Man's Curve" accident that nearly claimed his life, then left him with many months of convalescence. Even though this near-death experience gave way to some soul searching and a "mellowing" in Jan's stubborn character, it is too little too late.

The music and the atmosphere of the "Hippie 60s" are a pleasant disctraction from the depressing drama. Rolled together, this is no "Grease" and it will leave a bitter taste in the mouth of fans. Jan is portrayed as an utterly unpleasant ego-maniac with no consideration for anyone or anything. Feeling "invincible", he is oblivious to the love of the close friends who stick by him in the ups and downs of the roller-coaster ride of fame and fortune. An invaluable contribution to Rock & Roll, privately Jan & Dean are no success story. What sad lives they lived when the lights went out. Recommended only for the music history lesson. If you are looking for a feel-good movie, don't even consider this one.

I just saw this again on TV for the first time in MANY years. Wow!

The performances of Richard Hatch and Bruce Davison are what make the film. Especially the portrayal of Jan Berry after the accident. Very moving story.

I must recommend the book Dead Man's Curve and Back: The Jan & Dean Story which goes further in-depth to their story and tells the amazing story of how this TV movie gave them a whole new career.

I wish current TV movies like the recent Charlie's Angels and Three's Company movies could have been this good by taking the subjects seriously.

This is an excellent, emotionally compelling telling of the life of Jan Berry. The best thing is the performance of Richard Hatch as Jan, who should have at least been nominated for an Emmy for it, but was overlooked. He is brilliant as he captures Jan's handicap and struggle with aphasia. He also is uncanny at capturing Jan's personality and sense of humor, which is readily apparent to anyone who has seen Jan and Dean in concert. Bruce Davidson is also excellent in the less-showy role of Dean Torrence. Highly recommended for fans of mid '60s music, or anyone interested in dramatic biographical stories.