Hell's Highway: The True Story of Highway Safety Films

This 91-minute documentary delves into the early history of educational films produced by the Highway Safety Foundation. It highlights the notorious use of graphic depictions of car accidents intended to shock audiences into safer driving behaviors. The film examines how these safety films not only aimed to educate but also reflected broader societal concerns about youth behavior in the post-war era.

Hell's Highway presents a critical look at the struggle between idealistic educational goals and the lurid exploitation often present in these films. It sheds light on how the messages conveyed in these safety films resonated with the teenage audience of the time, shaping their perceptions of driving and safety. With contributions from notable figures like Rick Prelinger and Mike Vraney, the documentary offers insights into the cultural ramifications of these films and their lasting legacy in North America.