American Hot Wax DVD (1978) Alan Freed Jay Leno

A fun look at the beginnings of rock-and-roll, focusing on pioneer rock deejay Alan Freed, who popularized the phrase "rock-and-roll." The narrative spotlights police efforts to censor the sinfully rhythmic music. The score fills the flick and includes Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Screamin' Jay Hawkins. Watch for young Drescher and Leno as sidekicks, and Newman as a rising songwriter. Jeff Altman, Fran Drescher, Moosie Drier, Jack Ellis, Richard Forbes, John Lehne, Jay Leno, Tim McIntire, Laraine Newman, Stewart Steinberg