Deadman's Curve

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.

I remember watching this on or near when it came out and absolutely loved it. I have been a fan of Richard Hatch and Bruce Davidson since then and even a bit before this show aired. Their performances in this movie really MAKE the movie.

The one scene that will always stick in my mind is when Richard Hatch's character (Jan Berry) has just been discovered by the audience to be lip-syncing to one of their songs. What he does to bring them back from the brink of getting up and walking out (or worse!) is truly awe inspiring.

Hope I can find this movie on DVD or even VHS if at all possible as it would be one to own in my opinion!

Great movie about singers Jan & Dean. It made me cry the first time I saw it. Richard Hatch actually studied Jan's walk and speech patterns in order to play the role. Dean provided memorabilia and Jan himself can be seen in the audience near the end. If this makes you curious about them, you can learn a whole heck of a lot more from the book DEAD MAN'S CURVE AND BACK - THE JAN & DEAN STORY by Mark Thomas Passmore. This can be bought at bookstores and Amazon.Com. The book really goes in depth with pictures and carries the story past where this TV movie revitalized their a career. Sort of a "sequel" in a way! Too bad Jan died last year, they were very cool in concert.

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

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.