Surfing channels I came across this film when my eyes recognized Torrance's, Rolling Hills Estates and south Redondo beach. I was a teen when this movie was made and surprised I never heard or seen the film as my summers were spent at Redondo & Hermosa beach as a visiting New York-er. My first thoughts were the film was the beginning framework from which Bay Watch was created. My second thought was Sam Elliott, a dynamic actor did not fit the role. Lifeguards were blonde, blue eyed back then, hence my skepticism to continue watching. But the nostalgia of viewing and recalling my early beach experiences kept me glued to the screen. I would like to mention that the US economy in the 70's was depressed and employment as a county lifeguard had a respectable position contrary to the film. By today's standards the same position in CA would be considered a professional job. As for the film I found it to be a bit cheesy but had the quality of presenting a message about life's career options as an adult. I read the reviews on this site for this film and found each one equally interesting. I gave it a low rating because although I can relate to the films objectivity it had a shallow story line. Clearly one of Sam Elliott's B listed movies.
Review of Lifeguard
