Welcome back to another edition of LRM’s Retro-Specs column! We are still going strong with that nostalgic time from 1985-1989. This week we have quite the treats. The first is that we are looking at 1986’s awesome BMX movie RAD. To top it off, our very own Jake Perry got an interview with RAD‘s Cru Jones himself, actor Bill Allen! Not only that, but it’s just in time for the film’s 4K release!

RAD Refresher

The ultimate 80’s BMX movie, RAD, is back with a fully restored 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray release by Utopia Distribution and Vinegar Syndrome.  Directed by legendary stuntman Hal Needham (Smokey and the Bandit, Cannonball Run) RAD follows Cru Jones (Bill Allen), a young BMXpert, who skips out on his SATs to partake in a traveling BMX race on a grueling course called Helltrack.  Packed with gnarly stunts and backed by a killer soundtrack, the movie tells the classic underdog tale that shows how hard work, dedication, and staying true to yourself will pay off in the end.

The film is hailed as a cult classic and one of the first of its kind to embrace BMX culture.  The original box office release of RAD was not a huge success but that didn’t stop it from inspiring generations of bicycle motocross riders for years to come.  It also helped pave the way for annual extreme sports events like the X- Games and even helped officially recognize BMX racing and BMX freestyle at the Olympic Games.

Finally 4K!

Although in high demand from fans across the globe, RAD has been in limbo for years, it was never officially put out on DVD and has only been available on the highly sought after VHS tapes and Laserdiscs.  RADdicts have been craving a proper release for over three decades and thanks to Robert Schwartzman, son of RAD’s late producer Jack Schwartzman, and his company Utopia Distribution, that day has finally arrived. The movie will be available to rent and purchase on digital platforms Friday, July 24. The film restoration and distribution company, Vinegar Syndrome, made a very limited pressing of 12,000 4K Ultra HD Blu-rays which sold out during the pre-sale orders, only proving that RAD is much more than a movie, it’s a way of life.

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I reached out to the star of the movie, Bill Allen, to break the ice and discuss how RAD transformed his life and made him into a cult classic icon. We also talked about his RAD career, his history on the screen and his musical performances on the stage.

Okay dudes, let’s talk this sucker!