Wild Guitar

Bud Eagle arrives in Hollywood on a motorcycle, stepping into a city pulsing with possibility. He heads toward Marge's Koffee Kup Cafe to pursue his music dreams. This arrival marks the first step in a journey that will test his ambitions and integrity.

At Marge's Koffee Kup Cafe, Bud meets Vickie, an aspiring dancer who quizzes him about his gimmick. She promises to share the inside dope on the music industry. Their encounter hints at a potential alliance between raw talent and streetwise ambition.

That night, Bud attends Vickie's performance on a television variety show. When the scheduled saxophonist is unable to perform, Bud steps in with a ballad and earns a standing ovation. The crowd's reaction immediately puts him in the spotlight.

Bud's performance draws the attention of talent scout Mike McCauley, who offers him a record deal and a chance at stardom. Bud accepts the proposal, stepping into a new world of contracts and promises.

McCauley installs Bud in a penthouse apartment and outfits him with tailored suits, a Fender Jazzmaster, and a mini tape recorder. He also sets up a ready to record backing band, jumpstarting a fast paced career. Yet Bud can't shake how shady the manager's methods feel.

Bud's career quickly takes off, even as his doubts about McCauley's unscrupulous tactics grow. McCauley openly pays high school students to promote his music at schools. Bud contemplates leaving the deal but stays, reminded of the money he owes.

Bud delivers the ballad Vickie on television, catching Vickie's attention as she watches from the audience. She hurries to the studio, and they share a joyful reunion. Later that night, they celebrate with ice skating at Vickie's uncle's rink.

Back at Bud's penthouse, Don Proctor confronts him, warning that McCauley is cheating and manipulating the career. Steak arrives with Daisy, who distracts Bud while Proctor and Steak clash outside, ending with Proctor being knocked down a staircase. Vickie walks in during the confusion, tears in her eyes.

A trio of comical bums from Marge's Koffee Kup Cafe kidnap Bud and take him to a hideout. Bud initially agrees to help plan the crime to exploit McCauley's power, but he refuses any share of the ransom money. The kidnappers try to squeeze more before the group scatters.

Bud helps plan the crime with the kidnappers but refuses to take the money for himself. The group scatters after a scuffle, and Bud goes into hiding. He later takes a dishwasher job at Marge's Koffee Kup Cafe to stay close to Vickie.

Bud and Vickie are apprehended by McCauley and Steak, who threaten violence if Bud does not resume his place in the manager's scheme. The couple's effort to escape is frustrated as McCauley tightens his grip. Bud's resolve to take a stand grows.

During the final confrontation, Steak confronts Bud in a physical fight, but Bud defeats him and the criminal flees. Bud reveals the incriminating tape recording he has captured, threatening to expose McCauley's deceit. McCauley, faced with public ruin, relents and promises to manage Bud fairly.

The film closes with a carefree moment on the beach as Vickie and Bud dance together while Bud sings Twist Fever. The pair celebrate a new, more honest collaboration away from manipulation. The sun and waves underscore a hopeful finale.