IMDb5.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes40%
Director: Alan Myerson•Genres: Comedy, Crime
A bizarre and quirky crime comedy, Steelyard Blues follows a group of misfits attempting to repossess a building from a corrupt lawyer. The group includes a hippie couple, a drug dealer, a retired cop, and an ex-convict, all brought together by the eccentric millionaire "Vinnie" who wants the building back for his own mysterious purposes. Their elaborate and often comical plans unfold with unpredictable consequences.
Steelyard Blues received a mixed to negative reception from critics upon its release, with many finding its plot convoluted and its humor hit-or-miss. While some appreciated its offbeat style and the chemistry between its lead actors, a significant portion of reviews highlighted its lack of coherence and underdeveloped characters. Audiences were similarly divided, with its unconventional approach failing to resonate broadly.
Praised for its unique, counter-culture vibe and the performances of Fonda and Sutherland.
Criticized for a convoluted plot and inconsistent comedic tone.
Seen as an ambitious but ultimately flawed attempt at a quirky crime caper.
Google audience: Audience reception for Steelyard Blues is difficult to quantify through aggregated Google reviews, but its niche appeal suggests it was appreciated by those seeking unconventional and psychedelic-tinged cinema, while others found it bewildering and unfocused.
The film's original title was 'The California Blues', and it was conceived as a vehicle for the burgeoning counter-culture movement of the early 1970s.
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