Rock Around the Clock
Rock Around the Clock

Movie spotlight

Rock Around the Clock

1956
Movie
77 min
English

A frustrated big-band promoter runs in to rock-and-rollers Bill Haley and the Comets at a small-town dance. He quickly becomes their manager and, with the help of Alan Freed, hopes to bring the new sound to the entire country. But will a conniving booking agent, with a personal ax to grind with the manager, conspire to keep the band from making the big time?

Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Director: Fred F. SearsGenres: Music, Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

A struggling television producer discovers the electrifying potential of rock and roll music when he attempts to book Bill Haley & His Comets for a show. Facing resistance from a skeptical sponsor and parents concerned about the music's influence, he must prove that rock and roll is more than just a fleeting fad. The film showcases performances by Haley and other early rock and roll stars.

Critical Reception

Rock Around the Clock was a modest success, primarily noted for its historical significance as one of the first major films to feature rock and roll music prominently. While not critically acclaimed for its plot or acting, it resonated with audiences eager to see their music heroes on the big screen and is considered a landmark in early rock cinema.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its energetic musical performances.

  • Seen as a significant early showcase for rock and roll on film.

  • Criticized for a thin, formulaic plot.

Google audience: Audience reception information for this film is not readily available through Google reviews.

Fun Fact

The film's title is derived from the hit song 'Rock Around the Clock' by Bill Haley & His Comets, which became a massive international success after being featured in this movie and the groundbreaking TV series 'Happy Days'.

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