Hometown U.S.A. 1979
"It was Heaven in '57."
Step into the sun-soaked nostalgia of 1957 with *Hometown U.S.A.* (1979), a sunburst-colored comedy directed by Max Baer Jr. that follows Rodney C. Duckworth—nicknamed "The Rodent"—as he transforms from a lovable underdog into a local legend in one wild night.
Director: Max Baer Jr.
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hometown U.S.A. (1979) about?
*Hometown U.S.A.* follows Rodney C. Duckworth, a shy high schooler teased as "The Rodent," who seizes a chance to change his luck by borrowing a shiny Chevy convertible and embarking on a quest for love and freedom. Alongside his unconventional crew, he navigates near-misses, comedic mishaps, and unexpected moments that turn him from a nobody into a local hero.
Who directed Hometown U.S.A.?
Hometown U.S.A. was directed by Max Baer Jr., best known for his role as Jethro Bodine in *The Beverly Hillbillies*.
Who stars in Hometown U.S.A.?
The film stars Gary Springer as Rodney, David Wilson as Calhoun, Brian Kerwin as T.J. Swackhammer, Pat Delaney, Julie Parsons, and Mitzi Hoag.
Is Hometown U.S.A. (1979) worth watching?
If you enjoy lighthearted, nostalgic comedies with a side of '50s charm, *Hometown U.S.A.* is a fun pick. While it may not be a critical darling, its breezy humor and energetic storytelling make it an enjoyable throwback for fans of classic teen movies.
How long is Hometown U.S.A.?
Hometown U.S.A. has a runtime of 93 minutes, or just over an hour and a half.
🎥 Trailer
About Hometown U.S.A. (1979) — A 1950s Teen Comedy Classic with Heart and Humor
Step into the sun-soaked nostalgia of 1957 with *Hometown U.S.A.* (1979), a sunburst-colored comedy directed by Max Baer Jr. that follows Rodney C. Duckworth—nicknamed "The Rodent"—as he transforms from a lovable underdog into a local legend in one wild night. Borrowing a cherry-red Chevy convertible, Rodney embarks on a heartfelt quest for love, friendship, and a taste of freedom, with the help of his eccentric crew: the greaser Calhoun, hot-rodder T.J. Swackhammer, and a parade of enthusiastic young women. The film crackles with the energy of classic American teen films, blending slapstick humor, jukebox romance, and the bittersweet thrill of growing up in a simpler time.
This lighthearted romp captures the magic of small-town life, where a borrowed car and a dream can turn a nobody into a hometown hero. With its vibrant setting, quirky characters, and a soundtrack that screams rock 'n' roll, *Hometown U.S.A.* delivers a nostalgic escape wrapped in comedy and charm. Whether you're a fan of vintage comedies or just love a good underdog story, this 1979 gem offers a fun, feel-good ride through the heart of mid-century America.