RAD
The Movie
RAD is a cult classic BMX movie that was released on 28 march, 1986. The movie is directed by Hal Needham, who was well known for his work on Smokey and the Bandit and The Cannonball Run. The movie grossed only $2 million on a $3 million budget
RAD is a movie that has captured the hearts of BMX fans and those who love the ’80s movie genre.
The story of RAD centers around a young BMX rider named Cru Jones (played by Bill Allen) who dreams of becoming a professional rider. He lives in a small town that is not conducive to BMX riding and has to deal with his father’s disapproval of his passion. However, when a BMX race comes to town with a $100,000 grand prize, Cru sees it as an opportunity to prove himself and achieve his dream.
One of the most memorable aspects of RAD is its soundtrack. The movie features a variety of ’80s rock hits that perfectly capture the vibe of the time. From Eddie and the Cruisers’ “On the Dark Side” to John Farnham’s “Break the Ice,” the music in RAD is a perfect time capsule of the era.
In terms of the BMX action, RAD is definitely a movie that delivers. The race sequences are thrilling, and the stunts are impressive. The movie also showcases a variety of different BMX disciplines, from freestyle to racing. Even though the movie is over 35 years old, the BMX action still holds up and is sure to entertain both old and new fans alike.
One of the standout characters in RAD is the villainous Bart Taylor, played by Jack Weston. Bart is a wealthy businessman who wants to shut down the BMX race and turn the land into a shopping mall. Weston plays the character with a cartoonish villainy that perfectly fits the tone of the movie.
The Cast
- Bill Allen as Cru Jones
- Lori Loughlin as Christian Hollings
- Talia Shire as Mrs. Jones
- Ray Walston as Burton Timmer
- Alfie Wise as Eliott Dole
- Jack Weston as Duke Best
- Bart Conner as Bart Taylor
- Marta Kober as Becky
- Jamie Clarke as Luke
- Laura Jacoby as Wesley Jones
- H.B. Haggerty as Sgt. Smith
- Chad Hayes as Rex Reynolds
- Carey Hayes as Rod Reynolds
- Kellie McQuiggin as Foxy
- Beverly Hendry as Tiger
- Shawna Burnett as Amy
- Graeme Davies as Harold
- Logan T. Wotton as Miles
- Jeff Kress as Rick
- Gordon Signer as Mayor Coop Jenkins
- Nancy MacDonald as Mrs. Grey
- Rick McNair as Bob the Cook
- Christian Roerig as Dirk Roburn
Conclusion
One of the standout characters in RAD is the villainous Bart Taylor, played by Jack Weston. Bart is a wealthy businessman who wants to shut down the BMX race and turn the land into a shopping mall. Weston plays the character with a cartoonish villainy that perfectly fits the tone of the movie.
Overall, RAD is a fun and entertaining movie that captures the spirit of the ’80s BMX culture. It may not be the most critically acclaimed movie of its time, but for fans of the sport and the era, it’s a must-see.
