Suburban Roulette

Suburban Roulette, directed by Herschell Gordon Lewis, is a 1968 drama film that dares to explore the boundaries of hedonism, morality, and the socio-political landscapes of suburban America during the 60s. The film stars Elizabeth Lee, Ben Moore, and Ione Rolnick, who deliver impactful performances to stain an unvarnished portrait of an ostensibly serene suburbia plagued by hypocrisy and vice.

The movie begins on a high note, setting an ordinary suburban backdrop where bumpy roads and brick houses make up the tranquil landscape. However, the narrative delves deeper into the shady side of this apparent calm, exposing the tangled web of suburban moral undercurrents. At center stage, we encounter the characters of Gigi (Elizabeth Lee) and Ike Armstrong (Ben Moore), who are regular attendees at the swinging parties held in the suburbs.

Elizabeth Lee delivers an outstanding performance as Gigi, a morally loose and free-spirited woman who plays by her own rules. Gigi, along with her manipulative husband, Ike Armstrong (Ben Moore in another stellar performance), uses these parties to satisfy their insatiable greed by blackmailing the wealthy men of the neighborhood. They lure unsuspecting suburban men, forcing them into comprising situations, and then threaten to expose them unless paid hefty hush money.

In this portrayal of domestic decadence, debutant actress Ione Rolnick plays the part of Alice Trent, a timid suburban housewife caught in the debilitating web spun around by the two leading characters. Alice, despite being a victim of Gigi and Armstrong’s malevolent scheme, stands resolute to testify and undo the heinous scheme set out by them. Rolnick renders a high-emotional performance, leaving the audience at the edge of their seats, rooting for Alice.

Suburban Roulette, on the surface, may seem like a raucous ride which is filled with spontaneous comedy and unashamed exhibitionism. However, simmering beneath its glamour and glitz, lies a grave commentary on social evils that may be lurking in the most unlikely corners of our society. It exposes the dangers of unchecked hedonism and the lengths at which people can go to exploit the vices of others.

Both Lee and Moore flaunt their acting chops by fluidly transforming into their respective characters. They brilliantly showcase the immoral side of humanity while courageously pushing the boundaries of what was then considered acceptable by the censors. The raw and unfiltered nature of the film adds to its appeal, offering a stark contrast to the polished and candy-coated dramas prevalent at the time.

Director Herschell Gordon Lewis permits himself to deviate significantly from the conventional norms of 60s drama. His vision provokes thought and encourages discussion on societal issues while churning out a compelling entertainment package. The depth he invests in each character and the painstaking detail given to recreate the suburban pastiche of the ’60s is commendable. It reflects his effort to create a tapestry of subversion that resonates far beyond the movie's runtime.

The cinematography and soundtrack of Suburban Roulette deserves a special mention. The cinematographer brilliantly captures the atmosphere of both the high-spirited parties and the tense drama that unravels. The jazz-infused soundtrack distinctively echoes the film's mood, setting the tone for a thrilling film journey.

Suburban Roulette is infused with melodrama and scandal, threaded together with an undercurrent of a social critique that is potent enough to incite contemplation. It can be said that the movie was far ahead of its time, unafraid to challenge the conventions of its era.

Overall, Suburban Roulette is a roller coaster ride of emotions, packed with thrill, mystery, humor, and a dash of social commentary that is undoubtedly an enduring testament to Herschell Gordon Lewis’s unwavering boldness. Viewer discretion and a taste for bold narratives are suggested while viewing, as the film doesn't refrain from showcasing the depth of human vice and deceit.

So if you are a fan of intense drama with a slice of noir, this is one film definitely worth adding to your watchlist.