Since I could not find a youtube video link to Moviedrome presenter Alex Cox’s intro to director Monte Hellman’s 1971 cult classic Two-Lane Blacktop, readers will have to make due with a link to his transcript for it (read here). The episode’s original airdate was August 6, 1989 (read here). Not unlike what the owner of Moviedromer.tumblr.com thought, I too disagree with Cox regarding the acting of singers James Taylor and Dennis Wilson (the latter from The Beach Boys). I too think it is just them improvising or making conversation. Nevertheless, I do agree with Cox’s sentiments on the late great Warren Oates (but then again, who wouldn’t?), who co-stars in this film. If you readers are interested in reading my list of my favorite Monte Hellman films, read here.
Here is a youtube video link to the film’s original theatrical trailer
cinematiccoffee 
I saw this at the cinema, if only for Oates. He was always so good!
Best wishes, Pete.
Never heard of this one. But I can’t see James and Dennis acting. Road trips are fun and this looks interesting. Thanks for bringing this to my attention, John.
I’ve never seen this one, John, though I’ve heard about it. Love Warren Oates and Dennis Wilson was so good looking.
I well remember watching Two-Lane Blacktop for the first time in the summer of 1989, I played my VHS recording for years until it finally wore out. The Criterion Collection release of this film is the most cherished part of my movie memorabilia collection. I’ve also splashed on the Eureka Blu-ray. It doesn’t matter how many times I dip into this film, I never get tired of watching it.
Warren Oates was always great as you so eloquently imply 🙂 Anyway, thanks for dropping by 🙂
I think that any acting in this film was optional – Warren Oates obviously stands out here – I think what made James Taylor and Dennis Wilson interesting here was just the conversations courtesy of Rudy Wurlitzer’s script. Anyway, thanks for dropping by 🙂
Trust me, you will love it 🙂 Anyway, thanks for dropping by 🙂
Is the Eureka Blu-Ray, the UK’s equivalent of the U.S.’s Criterion’s special edition? I mean I think Criterion has released a few over in the UK, though not as much (at least by comparison) as here in the U.S. or at least based on my knowledge. But yeah, I never get tired of Two-Lace Blacktop either 🙂 Anyway, thanks for dropping by 🙂
I think they must work together. The Eureka Blu-ray does have some of the Criterion special features, it also adds the commentary found on the Anchor Bay DVD and a 36-page booklet featuring rare production imagery, the words of Monte Hellman etc.
After so many years where I couldn’t watch this film it’s great to have it on Blu-ray with the improved picture and sound.