Review of Beach Party (1963) by Monsieur R — 12 Nov 2010

Very lame humor low budget comedy made expressly for teens wanting to see their teen idols, namely Avalon and Funicello.

Adults, if there were any, had comedian Robert Cummings as a social scientist documenting the courting habits of the time. Cummings was an adult fan favorite at the time.

This one is a period piece, a slice in time of the early sixties, which actually never happened to the extent the movie would want us to believe. Crazy plots, stupid jokes, silly skits made up 5 of these very popular movies. Usually refered to as Beach "classics", and I use the term very loosely.

Not in the least serious comedy, no one cared. All parents wanted were "safe" movies for thier hormone filled kids to see, and the studios kept their teen stars as free from scandal as can be. Frankie Avalon was the "safe" alternative to Elvis, Annette F. another "safe" celebrity of the ex-Mouseketter lead in the kids tv show.

Director William Asher had the usual formula plot to work with, light comedy, light romance, light crime and a 40 watt script. However, these are still great time capsules for the retro cloths, sunglasses, beach wear and culture... Surf's up!

Cast.

Frankie Avalon (lead actor and boyfriend of Annette).

Annette Funicello (lead actress and girlfriend of Avalon).

Bob Cummings (the scientist).

Harvey Lembeck (Eric Von Zipper, gang leader).

Dorothy Malone (the secretary to the scientist).

Eva Six.

John Ashley.

Morey Amsterdam.

Candy Johnson.

Jody McCrea.

Vincent Price (cameo appearance).

Crew.

Director: William Asher.

Executive Producer: Samuel Z. Arkoff.

Composer: Les Baxter.

Producer: Lou Rusoff.

Screenplay: Lou Rusoff.

Producer: James Nicholson.