Little Fauss and Big Halsy

Sensitive-guy idol Robert Redford was cast as a heartless (and often shirtless) jerk in this 1970 motorcycle-race narrative that reputedly suffered from behind-the-scenes rough patches between the two lead actors and was no easy ride (even though the inspiration was probably Easy Rider) for director Sidney J. Furie. In retrospect, however, the loosely-plotted Little Fauss and Big Halsy scores reasonably well as a macho frenemy drama. Redford plays Halsy, a magnetic but irresponsible, injury-scarred off-road racer on the California circuit. Suspended from competition, the womanizing lout hooks up with Little Fauss (Michael J. Pollard), a man-boy mechanic with racing ambitions. Taking advantage of Fauss's naiveté, Halsy goes on the road with the kid, where they are joined by a sexy/flaky cast-off biker chick (Lauren Hutton) who reads Naked Lunch. Along the way, Fauss's hero-worship of Halsy turns to disdain the more he listens and learns. Featuring soundtrack ballads performed by Johnny Cash, this road flick is recommended. (C. Cassady)