Bikini Drive-In

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.

Ashlie Rhey is our endearing leading lady in this amiable feature, playing Kim Taylor, a young woman fairly bored with her life. Fortunately, she's in for some excitement, as she receives word that her recently deceased grandfather has left her his (failing) drive-in theatre. She's genuinely interested in making a go of things, but she only has the weekend to come up with $25,000 or the bank will lay claim to the property. She doesn't want to let sleazy businessman J.B. Winston (played by the Mighty Monarch of Exploitation, David F. Friedman) bail her out, because he just wants to build a "super mall" on the premises. With the help of J.B.'s son, Brian (Richard Gabai), and assorted others - including scream queen Dyanne Lynn (Michelle Bauer) - she sets out to make this upcoming weekend as profitable as it can possibly be.

Only one scene, in which one character seems about to set another on fire, is at odds with the genuinely lighthearted approach taken by prolific B movie veterans Fred Olen Ray (director) and Jim Wynorski (executive producer) to this material. This viewer was expecting something explicit and trashy, and the movie delivers in that regard, but what he also got was a very loving tribute to drive-in cinema, and a nearly bygone way of experiencing a night out at the movies. "Bikini Drive-In" is very appealing, in its best moments, and is good for a LOT of titillation and some hearty chuckles. Certainly there is a great attraction in seeing a lot of vintage posters of B movies from decades past, ranging from "The Cremators" to "Invasion of the Blood Farmers". A cheery pop soundtrack is a plus. The finale is rather rushed, but it's sure to leave smiles on some faces.

Ray and Wynorski have great success peppering the cast with many new and old faces from cult cinema. These actors couldn't be more engaging. Ross Hagen, Peter "Orville Ketchum" Spellos, Nikki Fritz, Conrad Brooks, Gordon Mitchell, Hoke Howell, Forrest J. Ackerman, director Ray himself (playing DJ Randy Rocket), Becky LeBeau, Tane McClure, and Wynorski all make appearances; McClures' "car dance" and Bauers' massage are unqualified highlights. The assets of our female cast members are stressed at any and every opportunity, and some of the males get into the act, too, as there are a few sex scenes.

If you're a fan of the filmographies of Messrs. Ray and Wynorski, this is pretty much essential viewing.

A head shot of John Carradine is used for a key photograph.

Eight out of 10.

"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.

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.

Gordon Mitchell has a small role playing GOLIATH in this fun film about a drive-in theater in financial trouble. Gordon Mitchell told me he did this clip as a favor to a friend. I have added two photos to the gallery that Gordon sent to me years ago. Enjoy.