The Wild Ride

A 1960 American drama film directed by Harvey Berman, starring Jack Nicholson as Johnny Varron, a rebellious Beat Generation punk who spends his days as an amateur dirt track driver between partying and troublemaking. After forcing a motorcycle cop off the road, Johnny's escalating recklessness alienates his best friend Dave, who has found a new girlfriend named Nancy. When Dave decides to leave the gang, Johnny kidnaps Nancy in a desperate bid to maintain control, leading to a tragic conclusion. Executive produced by Roger Corman and released through Filmgroup as a double feature with The Girl in Lovers Lane. An early Nicholson role, made when he was 23.