Summary of "Human Highway""Human Highway" is a 1982 comedy-drama movie with a diverse blend of musical and surreal aspects. Directed by Bernard Shakey, a pseudonym for Neil Young, who also co-directed with Dean Stockwell, the movie stars Young, Stockwell, Russ Tamblyn, Dennis Hopper, and the band Devo. Its unconventional story and design originate from a mix of 1950s sci-fi movies, rock musicals, and down-to-earth character interactions, often considered a cult classic for its peculiar approach to storytelling and distinct tone.
Plot SummarySet in the fictional town of Linear Valley, overshadowed by a neighboring nuclear power plant that's regularly described but never completely envisioned, "Human Highway" follows the lives of numerous quirky characters interconnected by the local diner/gas station referred to as "Cook's". The title hints at the movie's overarching theme-- the path humanity is on, apparently towards self-destruction.
Neil Young, playing dual roles as Lionel Switch and Bernard Shakey, is at the center of the plot. Lionel, a bumbling and unpopular mechanic who dreams of being a rock star, is the protagonist whose viewpoint guides much of the movie. His change ego, Bernard Shakey, makes appearances as a secondary character who is a dim reflection of Lionel.
The film advances with seemingly unconnected vignettes, featuring odd character interactions and surreal series. We fulfill Otto Quartz (played by Stockwell), the greedy owner of Cook's who inherits the establishment from his deceased daddy. Otto's handling of business and subsequent sacking of an employee sets a series of zany occasions into motion.
Other characters consist of the customer-loving waitress Kathryn (Charlotte Stewart), the crazed nuclear engineer (played by Young under his real-life surname), and the members of Devo, who appear as nuclear trash males. Dennis Hopper plays Cracker, a cook at the restaurant, while Russ Tamblyn complete the cast as Fred, Otto's buddy who believes in the company's potential.
Styles and SymbolismEnvironmental disaster and corporate greed loom large in "Human Highway". The existence of the power plant signifies the looming danger of nuclear catastrophe, while Otto's neglect for his staff members and the town's well-being reflects a broader review of industrialism and its results on small communities.
Dream series and extravagant musical numbers, including performances by Neil Young and Devo, stress the movie. These aspects separate the narrative to explore the inner desires of the characters and supply a satirical look at American culture throughout the Cold War age.
Reception and LegacyUpon its release, "Human Highway" was met with confusion and blended evaluations. It stopped working to resonate with mainstream audiences, likely due to its disjointed plot and eccentric design. Nevertheless, for many years it has actually gathered a following that appreciates its distinct blend of satire, music, and post-apocalyptic images.
The movie has actually given that been thought about ahead of its time, with Neil Young's environmental issues ending up being more appropriate in subsequent decades. "Human Highway" stays a bold experiment in visual and narrative storytelling, reflecting the anxieties of its time while accepting the absurdity and unpredictability of life in a nuclear age.
Conclusion"Human Highway" stands as a non-traditional artifact of early '80s movie theater, significant for its combination of music, black funny, and social commentary. Neil Young's enthusiastic task might have been too progressive for its preliminary audience however stays a fascinating cultural document that continues to find gratitude amongst fans of unusual and thought-provoking film experiences.
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