Steelyard Blues 1973
"If you can't beat 'em ... drive 'em crazy!"
Alan Myerson's irreverent 1973 comedy-drama Steelyard Blues follows a ragtag crew of dreamers and misfits who hatch a daring plan to escape conventional life by commandeering an old PBY flying boat.
Director: Alan Myerson
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Steelyard Blues (1973) about?
Steelyard Blues follows a group of outcasts who plot to flee modern society by restoring and flying an old seaplane. Their mission quickly spirals into a series of mechanical disasters and mishaps, testing both their ingenuity and their resolve as they inch closer to escape—or crash landing.
Who directed Steelyard Blues?
The film was directed by Alan Myerson, who brings a gritty yet playful sensibility that perfectly suits the story's offbeat escapade.
Who stars in Steelyard Blues?
The main cast includes Jane Fonda, Donald Sutherland, Peter Boyle, Garry Goodrow, and Howard Hesseman as the eccentric crew chasing their airborne dream.
Is Steelyard Blues (1973) worth watching?
Though not a mainstream hit, Steelyard Blues delivers a charming mix of comedy and drama bolstered by strong performances from Fonda and Sutherland. Its sun-drenched, rebellious spirit offers a nostalgic snapshot of 1970s counterculture, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of character-driven escapism.
How long is Steelyard Blues?
The runtime for Steelyard Blues is 93 minutes.
About Steelyard Blues (1973) — A Wild Flight of Freedom with Jane Fonda and Donald Sutherland
Alan Myerson's irreverent 1973 comedy-drama Steelyard Blues follows a ragtag crew of dreamers and misfits who hatch a daring plan to escape conventional life by commandeering an old PBY flying boat. With Jane Fonda and Donald Sutherland at the helm as the free-spirited duo at the story's core, the film blends gritty realism with offbeat humor as they navigate mechanical mishaps, eccentric allies, and their own chaotic ambitions. Set against a sun-soaked 1970s backdrop of counterculture defiance, this underrated gem explores themes of escapism, community, and the messy pursuit of happiness beyond societal norms.
The story unfolds like a sun-drenched chase, where every tinkered screw and improvised fix brings the airborne dream just a little closer—until the moment the plane might actually lift off. Its tone oscillates between slapstick chaos and poignant reflection, anchored by the magnetic chemistry of its lead pair and the unhinged charm of supporting players like Peter Boyle. More than just a lighthearted romp, Steelyard Blues captures the restless spirit of an era when leaving everything behind felt like the most reasonable choice of all.