The Delinquents (1960 film)

Los Golfos, film poster

The Delinquents
Directed by	Robert Altman
Written by	Robert Altman
Produced by	Robert Altman
Starring	Tom Laughlin, Peter Miller, Richard Bakalyan
Cinematography	Joseph C. Brun
Edited by	Helene Turner
Music by	Gene Forrell
Production company	The Filmgroup
Distributed by	United Artists
Release date	1960
Running time	72 minutes
Country	United States
Language	English

The Delinquents is a 1960 American drama film directed, produced, and written by Robert Altman. The film stars Tom Laughlin, Peter Miller, and Richard Bakalyan. It was one of the early works of Robert Altman, who would later become a renowned filmmaker.

Plot

The film follows the story of Scotty White, played by Tom Laughlin, a young man who becomes involved with a gang of juvenile delinquents. The gang's leader, Cholly, played by Peter Miller, influences Scotty to participate in various criminal activities. As Scotty becomes more entangled in the gang's lifestyle, he struggles with his conscience and the impact of his actions on his family and girlfriend.

Cast

• Tom Laughlin as Scotty White
• Peter Miller as Cholly
• Richard Bakalyan as Eddy
• Rosemary Howard as Janice Wilson
• Helen Hawley as Mrs. White
• Mickey Sholdar as Billy White

Production

The film was produced by Robert Altman's own production company, The Filmgroup, and distributed by United Artists. It was shot on a modest budget and is notable for its portrayal of teenage rebellion and the influence of peer pressure.

Reception

Upon its release, The Delinquents received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the film for its realistic depiction of juvenile delinquency, while others criticized it for its melodramatic elements. Despite the mixed reviews, the film has gained a cult following over the years and is considered an important early work in Robert Altman's career.

Legacy

The Delinquents is often studied in film courses for its early exploration of themes that would become central to Robert Altman's later works, such as social dynamics and the complexity of human relationships. The film also serves as an example of low-budget filmmaking in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

See also

• Robert Altman filmography
• Juvenile delinquency in film
• American drama films

External links

The Delinquents at IMDb