Is Dare the Devil Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1969)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 1969, Dare the Devil represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Drama category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into This is the story of David Keller, young, confused and uncertain. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Drama are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "This is the story of David Keller, young, confused and uncertain. On a trip to the beach with his fiancée, the two are attacked by a group of hoodlums in dune buggies and although David fights them with every ounce of his strength, he is unable to prevent the rape of his girl. Disillusioned and frustrated by his fate, he has a chance meeting with Molly, attractive and old enough to be his mother, and decides to live with her for a while. Here he has his first affair and his first taste of liquor and the lusts and passions of life. There is a lively and entertaining night club sequence. Then comes Molly’s teen-aged daughter and more complications. This is an explosive, controversial action drama of today’s youth and their problems. (from: http://templeofschlock.blogspot.de/2010/07/endangered-list-case-file-73.html)"

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Despite the inherent talent of Ray Wise, the performance in Dare the Devil feels somewhat constrained by a narrative framework that doesn't fully exploit their range. There are flashes of brilliance, but the overall impact is muted.

The direction by Robert J. Emery is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 72 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Dare the Devil truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Drama, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 0/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Dare the Devil explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1969 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Robert J. Emery respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Dare the Devil is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Ray Wise or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Dare the Devil is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.