Trucks and truckers have been the subject of many movies over the years. From high-speed chases to heartwarming stories of friendship and redemption, films featuring trucks and truckers have captured the imagination of audiences around the world. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best films that showcase the world of trucking.
Smokey and the Bandit (1977)
One of the most iconic films about trucking, Smokey and the Bandit stars Burt Reynolds as a trucker who accepts a job to smuggle beer across state lines while being pursued by a relentless sheriff played by Jackie Gleason. The movie is full of high-speed chases and features a memorable performance by Reynolds.
Convoy (1978)
Based on the hit song by C.W. McCall, Convoy follows a group of truckers as they travel across the country, evading the police and fighting for their rights. The film stars Kris Kristofferson as the leader of the truckers and features a famous scene where the convoy stretches for miles on a dusty highway.
Every Which Way but Loose (1978)
Starring Clint Eastwood as a trucker named Philo Beddoe, who moonlights as a fighter. Every Which Way But Loose is a comedy about a man who travels across the country with his pet orangutan, Clyde. The movie features some impressive driving scenes (though mostly in a 1955 Chevy Apache pickup truck) and showcases the camaraderie of truckers.
Over the Top (1987)
Starring Sylvester Stallone, Over the Top is a movie about a trucker who enters arm-wrestling competitions to win money and regain the respect of his estranged son. The film is a classic underdog story and features some impressive arm-wrestling scenes.
Black Dog (1998)
Black Dog stars Patrick Swayze as Jack Crews, an ex-con and former truck driver who is forced to take on one last job to save his family. The film is full of high-speed chases and features some impressive stunts with big rigs.
White Line Fever (1975)
White Line Fever stars Jan-Michael Vincent as a truck driver who stands up against corruption and organized crime in the trucking industry. The film highlights the struggles of independent truckers and the importance of standing up for what is right.
Maximum Overdrive (1986)
Directed by Stephen King, Maximum Overdrive is a horror movie about machines that come to life and attack humans. The film’s most memorable scene involves a group of truckers at a North Carolina truck stop who must battle a mass of rogue trucks. It’s a little cheesy, sure, but let’s be real, it was ahead of its time in asking the question, what if semi-trucks had a mind of their own and could drive themselves?
Big Rig (2007)
Big Rig is a documentary that follows the lives of several truckers as they travel across the country. The film highlights the challenges and rewards of life on the road and showcases the importance of trucking to the economy.
There’s no doubt that trucks have played an important role in Hollywood. Whether it’s Smokey and The Bandit or Maximum Overdrive, a movie featuring a truck brings something special and unique to viewers. After all, trucks have been part of our culture ever since they were first rolled out from factories, so playing homage to these awesome vehicles just makes good cinema. What are some of your favorite movies featuring trucks and truckers?
