FM

Watch FM

"No Static At All!"
  • PG
  • 1978
  • 1 hr 44 min
  • 6.3  (1,164)

FM is a 1978 comedy-drama film directed by John A. Alonzo and starring Michael Brandon, Eileen Brennan, and Alex Karras. The movie tells the story of Q-Sky, a successful rock radio station that is under constant threat from commercial pressures and corporate compromise. As the station managers struggle to keep Q-Sky on the air and stay true to its roots, they must navigate the complex web of relationships and politics that drive the music industry.

The film takes place in Los Angeles and centers around the daily operations of Q-Sky, a popular radio station that plays rock music. The station is run by Jeff Dugan (Michael Brandon), a charismatic and rebellious DJ who is beloved by listeners but at odds with the station's management. He clashes with the station manager, Regis Lamar (Norman Lloyd), who is more concerned about the station's ad revenues than its musical integrity.

As Jeff struggles with the pressures of his job, he becomes romantically involved with a fellow staff member, the dedicated and hard-working program director, Laura Coe (Eileen Brennan). Laura shares Jeff's passion for music and his desire to keep Q-Sky independent, but she is also conflicted by her loyalty to Regis and her own career ambitions.

Meanwhile, the station faces a new threat in the form of a hostile takeover bid from a larger media conglomerate. The conglomerate's representative, Doc Holiday (Alex Karras), is a cold and calculating executive who is determined to assimilate Q-Sky into his company's corporate structure.

The conflict comes to a head when Jeff and his colleagues stage a guerrilla-style protest to save their station from the takeover bid. They take over a rival radio station's frequency and broadcast their message of independence to the entire city, causing chaos and confusion in the process.

Throughout the movie, FM explores the tension between artistic integrity and corporate greed in the music industry. It raises questions about the true purpose of radio and the power of music to inspire and connect people, as well as the role of media in shaping public opinion.

The film also features an impressive soundtrack, with songs by popular rock artists such as Linda Ronstadt, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, The Eagles, and The Doobie Brothers. The music plays a central role in the movie, serving as a rallying cry for the station's loyal listeners and a source of inspiration for its staff.

Overall, FM is a witty and engaging film that combines humor, drama, and social commentary to explore the complex world of radio broadcasting. Its themes of creativity, rebellion, and resistance continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a classic of 1970s cinema.

FM
FM doesn't appear to be available from any streaming services.
Add this movie to your Watchlist to get notified when it's available.
Description
  • Release Date
    1978
  • MPAA Rating
    PG
  • Runtime
    1 hr 44 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.3  (1,164)