Exploring the Lesser-Known Gems of Car Movies

As a car enthusiast, you might have watched all the popular car movies like the Fast and the Furious franchise, Ronin, and Baby Driver. But have you ever wondered about the lesser-known gems of car movies? The ones that are not super obvious but still worth watching? In this article, we will explore some of these hidden treasures that every car lover should add to their watchlist.

1. Jean-Luc Godard’s Week End

Let’s start with an unconventional pick – Jean-Luc Godard’s Week End. While not a typical car movie, this French film from 1967 features a memorable scene where a traffic jam turns into a chaotic and violent scene. The movie follows a couple on a weekend trip that goes awry, and the traffic jam scene is a commentary on the societal breakdown happening around them. The cars in the scene become symbols of the chaos and destruction happening in society, making it a thought-provoking watch for any car enthusiast.

2. Vanishing Point

Released in 1971, Vanishing Point is a cult classic that has gained a following over the years. The movie follows Kowalski, a car delivery driver who takes on a bet to deliver a car from Colorado to San Francisco in record time. The movie features some iconic muscle cars, including a 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T, and has some thrilling car chases that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

3. Bullitt

Another classic car movie that deserves more recognition is Bullitt. Released in 1968, the movie stars Steve McQueen as a San Francisco cop who is tasked with protecting a witness in a high-profile case. The movie features an iconic car chase scene through the streets of San Francisco, with McQueen driving a 1968 Ford Mustang GT fastback. The scene is considered one of the best car chases in movie history and is a must-watch for any car enthusiast.

4. The Driver

Released in 1978, The Driver is a crime thriller that features some impressive car chases. The movie follows a getaway driver who is pursued by a detective trying to catch him in the act. The movie features some impressive driving stunts, including a scene where the driver maneuvers his car through a parking garage while being chased by the police. The movie is a great watch for anyone who loves car chases and action-packed thrillers.

5. Two-Lane Blacktop

Two-Lane Blacktop is a road movie released in 1971 that follows two drag racers as they travel across the country in their 1955 Chevy. The movie features some impressive driving scenes, including a drag race against a GTO and a showdown with a driver in a 1970 Pontiac. The movie is a slow burn, but the driving scenes make it worth the watch for any car enthusiast.

6. Le Mans

Le Mans is a 1971 movie that follows a driver played by Steve McQueen as he competes in the famous 24-hour race. The movie features some impressive racing scenes, with McQueen doing his own driving stunts. The movie is a great watch for anyone who loves racing and wants to experience the thrill of the Le Mans race.

7. Death Proof

Death Proof is a 2007 movie directed by Quentin Tarantino that pays homage to 1970s exploitation films. The movie follows a stuntman who uses his “death-proof” car to kill young women. The movie features some impressive car chases and stunts, including a scene where the stuntman drives his car into another car at high speed. The movie is a great watch for anyone who loves Tarantino’s style and wants to see some impressive car stunts.

Conclusion

While the Fast and the Furious franchise and other popular car movies are great, there are many hidden gems that every car enthusiast should watch. From Jean-Luc Godard’s Week End to Death Proof, these movies feature impressive driving scenes and memorable car chases that will keep you on the edge of your seat. So, grab some popcorn and get ready for a thrilling ride with these lesser-known car movies.