Brian Rose Presents: The Golden Age of Hollywood

Rock & Roll and the Movies From Bill Haley to the Beatles

Rock music exploded on the big screen when Bill Haley & the Comets sang “Rock Around the Clock” at the opening of Blackboard Jungle in 1955. Frenzied teenagers danced in the aisles and there were reports of violence and vandalism at theaters around the world. Rock’s notoriety would end up contributing to its appeal and Hollywood, recognizing the power of the teen audience, would begin to unleash a series of films featuring rock and R&B musicians performing their hits in the midst of plots ranging from rebellious high schoolers, out-of-control hot rodders, or the romantic antics of spring break college students. Movies and rock formed a valuable commercial partnership, whether it was Elvis Presley’s 31 mostly forgettable films or the Beatles’ groundbreaking A Hard Day’s Night from 1964. This presentation will look at the first decade of rock movies and how Hollywood helped reflect the power of this music around the world.

Presented by Brian Rose. Snacks will be served.

This program is being offered as a hybrid program - patrons may attend at the Library or online via Zoom. Registration is requested, but not required for in person attendance. Online participants must register to receive the Zoom link.

This program is sponsored by the Woburn Public Library Foundation.