Border Radio [Criterion Collection]

When the Mexican government forbade its clear-channel radio stations to broadcast English-language entertainment shows, a colorful chapter in broadcasting was brought to a close. Border Radio evokes memories of those rough-and-tumble days when deejays like Wolfman Jack were able to do their "platters 'n' chatters" thing on Mexico's 250,000-watt radio outlets. Three genuine musicians-Chris D., John Doe and Alvin-star as three aspiring (and none-too-honest) band members. Forced to flee south of the Border, our anti-heroes struggle for success, but are held back by their own personal quirks. B-movie perennial Luana Anders makes what amounts to a guest appearance in this independently produced black & white effort. Director Allison Anders collaborated on the Border Radio script with Dean Lent (who also served as cinematographer) and Kurt Voss.