‘Tis the season to roll down the cinematic highway with a convoy of holiday cheer, where trucks and truckers take the spotlight on the silver screen. Over the years, many films have been made about professional drivers and their colorful lives on the road. What better time to watch them than around the holiday season, when we’re all looking for ways to cozy up? Here are eight of some of the best films that paint a vivid picture of the trucking world.
Smokey and the Bandit (1977)
Kicking off our movie marathon is the iconic Smokey and the Bandit, a timeless classic starring Burt Reynolds. Watch as this trucker takes on the spirited challenge of smuggling beer across state lines, all while being pursued by a determined sheriff, played by the legendary Jackie Gleason. The film, adorned with high-speed chases, delivers a memorable performance by Reynolds, making it a holiday treat.
Convoy (1978)
Following the rhythmic beats of C.W. McCall’s hit song, Convoy transforms the road into a trail of truckers evading the police and fighting for their rights. Kris Kristofferson leads this convoy, creating a visual and inspiring spectacle where trucks stretch for miles on dusty highways. This is a movie filled with good-spirited rebellion and camaraderie.
Every Which Way but Loose (1978)
Join Clint Eastwood as Philo Beddoe in a comedic escapade across the country. Paired with his loyal orangutan, Clyde, Beddoe’s adventures unfold, highlighting the camaraderie and humor of truckers. While the wheels may turn on a 1955 Chevy Apache pickup truck, the spirit of life on the road rolls on with laughter and unconventional travel companions.
Over the Top (1987)
Sylvester Stallone takes the wheel in Over the Top, steering through the twists and turns of an underdog story. As a trucker entering arm-wrestling competitions to win back respect and reconnect with his son, Stallone delivers a classic tale of determination. Arm-wrestling scenes and heartfelt sentiments collide in this heartwarming journey.
Black Dog (1998)
Patrick Swayze revs up the excitement in Black Dog, portraying Jack Crews, an ex-con and former truck driver. Forced to take on one last job to save his family, Crews navigates high-speed chases and impressive stunts with big rigs. This film is a mix of thrilling action and family bonds on the open road.
White Line Fever (1975)
Jan-Michael Vincent takes the wheel in White Line Fever, a gripping tale of a truck driver standing against corruption and organized crime in the trucking industry. This cinematic journey unfolds the struggles of independent truckers, reminding us of the importance of fighting for what is right.
Maximum Overdrive (1986)
In this Stephen King-directed horror flick, machines come to life, including a menacing fleet of rogue trucks. A little cheesy, perhaps, but Maximum Overdrive was ahead of its time, posing the chilling question of what would happen if semi-trucks had minds of their own — a timely tale in 2023.
Big Rig (2007)
Shifting gears to a documentary tone, Big Rig takes us on a behind-the-scenes tour of truckers’ lives. As these road warriors traverse the country, the film unveils the challenges and rewards of life on the road, underscoring the crucial role of trucking in the economy—a documentary ode to the unsung heroes of the supply chain.
These movies remind us that trucks have not only transported goods but have also delivered joy, laughter, and a sense of adventure to audiences. So, as you cozy up this winter, share your favorite trucking tales from the silver screen. After all, what’s the holiday season without a dash of cinematic magic featuring trucks and truckers? What are your cherished movies that revolve around these magnificent vehicles?
