Charismatic creep Duke (a strong and mesmerizing performance by Corey Allen) and his dim-witted virginal partner Boots (ably played by the always terrific Warren Oates in his first substantial film role) are a couple of young thugs on a rampage in California. Duke sets up neglected housewife Ann Carlyle (a fine and touching portrayal by fetching blonde Kate Manx) as a potential conquest for Boots to have his way with.
Writer/director Leslie Stevens relates the gripping story at a quick pace, offers a pungent critique of the stifling and superficial nature of upper middle-class American existence, adroitly crafts a brooding mood rife with pent-up rage and simmering sexual tension, and pulls out the stirring stops at the exciting conclusion. Moreover, the homoerotic relationship between Duke and Boots further enhances the overall edgy and unsettling atmosphere. Robert Wark acquits himself well as Ann's preoccupied career-obsessed husband Roger while Jerome Cowan has a memorable bit as a luckless motorist Duke and Boots terrorize at the start of the movie. Ted D. McCord's sharp black and white cinematography and Pete Rugolo's spirited score are both up to speed. A real sleeper.
Writer/director Leslie Stevens relates the gripping story at a quick pace, offers a pungent critique of the stifling and superficial nature of upper middle-class American existence, adroitly crafts a brooding mood rife with pent-up rage and simmering sexual tension, and pulls out the stirring stops at the exciting conclusion. Moreover, the homoerotic relationship between Duke and Boots further enhances the overall edgy and unsettling atmosphere. Robert Wark acquits himself well as Ann's preoccupied career-obsessed husband Roger while Jerome Cowan has a memorable bit as a luckless motorist Duke and Boots terrorize at the start of the movie. Ted D. McCord's sharp black and white cinematography and Pete Rugolo's spirited score are both up to speed. A real sleeper.