NASCAR is not one of the world’s most respected sports. In fact, it’s not even the most respected form of auto racing (that distinction belongs to Formula 1). But like any high-speed race, we see tragedy, dramatic comebacks, and heart-pounding photo finishes. Few NASCAR movies have reached this platonic ideal, but many have tried with mixed results. Below are his eight best NASCAR movies ever made, ranging from dramatic and compelling to delightfully silly.
Talladega Nights (2006)
No movie captures the fun and spirit of NASCAR so well Talladega NightsClearly, the film is a comedy and its portrayal of NASCAR, its fans, and its drivers is satirical. Nevertheless, it’s hard not to watch this without feeling the need for speed. The final race for Sheikh and Bake’s team in is truly thrilling. There are also some moments here that resonate with NASCAR fans. spinal tap Get nervous with some musicians. A good satire always has a healthy dose of truth. I must also say: Will Ferrellprayer scene Talladega Nights is one of the funniest bits he’s ever done, and his kids threatening to come to Grandpa “like spider monkeys” is never funny.
Cars (2006)
carIt’s also a loving tribute to the roadside towns that dot Arizona, New Mexico, and other stops along Route 66. Although the movie’s plot generally involves only NASCAR, the movie is still a celebration of classic American car culture. Long ago, hitting the road, criss-crossing the country and not caring if you got a little lost felt like an exciting and romantic idea. If this charming movie doesn’t inspire you to road trip, neither does it.
Racing Dreams (2009)
This 2009 documentary marshall curry A great film about youth, ambition and driving a race car, it deserves far more attention than it receives. Introducing NASCAR drivers.is like a racing version of hoop dreams But perhaps more exciting. Fun Fact: This movie was credited as the first feature filmmaker. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
Days of Thunder (1990)
Honestly, none of the director’s racing movies Tony Scott and starring tom cruise, Nicole KidmanWhen Robert Duvall It’s on this list if for no other reason than out of respect for everyone involved. days of thunder It’s a relatively serious and candid portrayal of NASCAR unlike any other film on this list.a bit similar top gun Although down-to-earth, it’s not all that memorable, and it doesn’t have an exceptional sequel. Talladega Nights Co-star John C. Reilly in a supporting role. (I never thought John C. Reilly would be king of NASCAR movies, but here we are).In case you’re interested days of thunder If you haven’t seen it yet, forget about the trailer and watch this awesome clip instead. It’s pure cinema.
Greaseed Lightning (1977)
No, it’s not a feature adaptation grease song, it Richard PryorA stunningly dramatic turn as Wendell Scott, one of the first black NASCAR drivers. It’s a bit strange to see Pryor in a drama, but he does a great job and injects just the right amount of charisma into the character. Pam Grier (Inexplicably) played with a folk-rock legend Richie HavensDespite its quirky cast, the film is surprisingly good and pleasantly inspirational.
The Last American Hero (1973)
this jewel star Jeff Bridges as Junior Johnson, another real-life NASCAR driver who was the subject of Tom Wolfe’s article on which the film was based. Johnson was a bootlegger who quit moonshine to become one of NASCAR’s most legendary drivers. He then had a successful second career as a team owner. In 1986, President Ronald Reagan granted Johnson a pardon for his moonshine conviction. If it’s not about NASCAR, what is it? the last american hero It’s a raucous good time on par with many of the great car movies of the 1970s like . Le Mans When disappeared in 60 seconds.
Stroker Ace (1983)
To create a list of car related movies, Burt Reynolds Appear at least once.his 1983 action comedy stroker ace It’s not one of his best outings, but it lovingly pays homage to the sport of auto racing with cameo appearances by legendary NASCAR drivers Dale Earnhardt and Richard Petty. stroker ace It’s a strange movie full of jokes, but it gently warms the hearts of NASCAR fans. Also, it’s incumbent on any movie buff to go through Burt Reynolds’ filmography at least once.
Speedway (1968)
speedway am Elvis A movie of its own kind. Elvis wasn’t a great actor, but he was a fun screen presence who gravitated towards offbeat material.co-starred in this movie Nancy Sinatra Best of all, he plays an IRS agent who falls in love with Elvis’ NASCAR driver character. speedway isn’t a cinematic masterpiece, but if you’ve fallen into the center of the Venn diagram of NASCAR and Elvis fans, this is definitely the movie for you. The incredibly faux-looking set is all coated in bright psychedelic colors from the late ’60s, and the background actors look like they’ve borrowed from the set. Austin Powers. It’s kind of awesome, a celebration of NASCAR, but maybe a less realistic movie. car.
