Cars, Cars, Cars

Given the death of Paul Walker last week, I thought I would dedicate today's post to movies that feature cars. For those that are unfamiliar with Paul Walker, he shot to fame largely through The Fast and the Furious Franchise of films. The films are not high art or really high quality viewing but if you are after popcorn action and like car chases then The Fast and the Furious films will appeal to you.

Other films that have great car scenes are:

Bullitt - no list about cars should be without at least one Steve McQueen movie. This one is probably his most famous and is very easy viewing.

Days of Thunder - I have to admit that I am not a huge fan of Tom Cruise but while I was working in the video shop, this was a favourite film of a fellow employee and he would watch parts of it after 10pm on a Saturday night when the shop really quietened down. It is a good Tony Scott film, not his best work.

Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby - if you are after a fun laugh that is easy to watch, this film is for you. It is really a film that does not take itself seriously.

The Blues Brothers - this film was a flop when it was released but it has some quality old school car chases in it. Also has a wonderful soundtrack and is easy viewing.

The Matrix: Reloaded - I recommend watching the first one before watching the sequel because it will explain a lot of the story. That said, there are some great car scenes in this film.

Bad Boys II - one of the best car chases I have seen in a while. Definitely worth a watch. Fun viewing and if you have a big screen and surround sound, this film is excellent to watch.

The Chase - this fun Charlie Sheen movie has a great cast and a good script. It doesn't take itself seriously and if you are in the mood for light hearted entertainment, this one is for you.

Love the Beast - this Australian documentary is really made with car fanatics in mind but it really does appeal to a wider audience as the film transcends the subject matter. Highly engaging viewing.

 The Great Race - this 1965 film has a great cast and makes for easy Saturday afternoon viewing. Just a light hearted comedy.

Vanishing Point - this is a great film from the 1970s. A real classic. Definitely worth a watch.

Cars - this is a great animated children's film that is fun for the whole family. Great cast, script and easy to watch.

The Italian Job - my preference is for the remake over the original but both versions are worth watching.

Tucker: The Man and His Dream - this film is based on a true story and is really well done. Engaging viewing.

The Cannonball Run - this is just a fun film. Please don't look for reality in this film or it will spoil your experience.

Mad Max - this Australian film is something of a cult classic that spawned no less than 2 sequels and gave George Miller a foot into Hollywood. It is fun viewing and features quite a young Mel Gibson.

The Transporter - this is Jason Statham doing what Jason Statham does well. If you like his character in either Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels or The Italian Job, chances are you will enjoy this film and its sequels.

The Bourne Supremacy - this is one rare occasion where I enjoyed the sequel more than the original although all three Matt Damon Bourne films are wonderful viewing. It has a great car scene and a wonderful cast.

Rush - despite poor reviews, this is quite a good film and definitely worth viewing if you like car movies and especially if you are a fan of F1.

That's it for today's post. Do you have a favourite car movie or think any of these films should not be on the list? If so, let me know in the comments below.