Sizzle Beach, U.S.A.

''Sizzle Beach, U.S.A.'', also known as ''Malibu Hot Summer'', is a 1981 independent film directed by Richard Brander, and starring Terry Congie, Leslie Brander, Roselyn Royce, and Kevin Costner in his film debut. It was filmed from 1978 to 1979. Troma re-released the film in 1986.

Costner was reportedly uncomfortable when filming a sex scene in the film. In the late 1980s, Costner tried to buy the rights to the film so he could keep it out of public view, but Troma Entertainment declined his offer.

In 1993, it was referenced in the '' Mystery Science Theater 3000'' episode '' Alien from L.A.'', but was never parodied on any incarnation of the show itself.

Plot

Three young women team up to rent a beach house in Malibu, California. One of them lands a job in a high school, thanks to an investment broker who she meets while jogging along the beach. Another of the women is taking acting lessons and enjoys horseback riding, though the young owner of the stable, John Logan (Kevin Costner), turns out to be more interesting than the riding itself.

The third woman practices her guitar, shuns the owner of the studio where she records, and hangs out with her hunk cousin Steve, the fourth roommate in the house.

Cast

* David Lipper as Tom
* Deborah M. Pratt as Sheila
* John Terlesky as Rusty
* Jennifer Delora as Kim
* Sally Kellerman as Miss Rook
* Gregory Scott Cummins as Lenny
* David A. Kessler as Vance
* Robert Miano as Sergeant
* Larry Gelman as Peter

* Daniel McDonald as Steve

Production

''The Beach'', later rebranded as ''Sizzle Beach, U.S.A.'', was produced on a low budget, which is evident in its modest set designs and costuming. Filming took place in various locations in California. The film initially struggled with a lack of distribution but eventually found a small cult audience after its release in the late 1980s. Despite its humble beginnings, ''Sizzle Beach, U.S.A.'' would later be remembered for its campy charm and for launching the career of several of its cast members.

Reception

''TV Guide'' panned the film, writing that it was " Inept from the opening titles to the closing credits." '' Impact'' magazine described the direction as amateurish and said the storyline's only point is to undress the actors. Costner's brief scene was noted as mild. Joe Bob Briggs wrote: "Best of all, ''absolutely no plot'' to make you forget the movie."

Legacy

The film remains a notable example of 1980s independent cinema and has since been celebrated for its kitschy, retro aesthetic. ''Sizzle Beach, U.S.A.'' is often enjoyed by fans for its nostalgic depiction of the era and its humorous portrayal of young ambition. The film's cult status grew over time, making it a fun, low-budget classic for viewers interested in offbeat cinema.

References

External links

*{{IMDb title, 0072173

1981 films
1981 independent films
American independent films
Troma Entertainment films
1980s English-language films
1980s American films
Films produced by Eric Louzil
Films set in Malibu, California
American romantic comedy films
English-language independent films