Groupie Girl

Groupie Girl (1970), directed by British exploitation kingpin Derek Ford, is a bleak, seamy peek into the music scene, co-written by former groupie Suzanne Mercer. The film follows Sally, played by Esme Johns, who stows away with a touring band. Sally is bored of her small town existence and is looking for an escape to London. What she encounters is being a commodity to be passed around to other touring bands when she outstays her welcome.

Resolutely downbeat in its portrayal, it is the darker cousin to films such as Herman’s Hermits’ star vehicle, Mrs Brown, You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter (1968). Notable British actors Donald Sumpter, James Beck and Ken Hutchison (Straw Dogs) all feature, alongside members of Brit psych band Opal Butterfly. The worthy inclusion of Mary and Madeleine Collinson (Twins of Evil) adds glamour to the grimy array of discarded joints and coffee stains that colour its palette.