Rent The Buddy Holly Story (1978)

Polished Holly, Raw Busey - The Buddy Holly Story review by griggs

Biopics about rock stars usually fall flat: plenty of tunes, not much drama. The Buddy Holly Story is no exception. It rattles through the milestones but never really scratches beneath the surface.

Gary Busey, though, is the revelation: twitchy charm off stage, a tyrant in rehearsal, and electrifying on stage. He learned guitar for the role and performs every song live — not just competently but with a raw edge that feels dangerous, immediate, alive. The film itself looks handsome, soaking the ’50s in warm tones without drowning in nostalgia. But too often the energy dips, cutting between Busey’s fire and politely clapping crowds, more TV special than rock ’n’ roll riot.

In the end, it’s tidy and conventional, but Busey keeps it sparking. Holly burned fast and bright; Busey channels that spirit with an intensity that hinted at the wild, unpredictable path his own career would later take.

Very good film - The Buddy Holly Story review by CP Customer

great film about the legendary buddy holly a must see for fans young and old i give it ten out of ten