Smokey and the Bandit

Starring: Burt Reynolds, Sally Field
Directed by: Hal Needham
Rating: PG
Genre: Comedy, Action, Crime
1977

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: The Bandit (Burt Reynolds) has to deliver a truck of beer within 48 hours. Along the way, he picks up a beautiful woman (Sally Field) and battles a redneck sheriff who is determiend to arrest him.

Review:

Tim: This is an incredibly fun film, and you can tell immediately why it became an instant classic. It's not very believable, but all the cast have such an enjoyable time on screen that you can forgive it for its shortcomings. We watch as a couple of good 'ol boys have a blast driving fast cars, escaping police, and generally having a great time. Of course, the cops are all portrayed as bumbling morons (or as vengeful, racist morons), but once again, this can be forgiven because it is all in good fun.

Burt Reynolds is fantastic as the Bandit. He is funny, charismatic, and the epitome of cool. He has such braod appeal- to both girls and guys (who all want to be him). He is such a terrific character, and we can't help rotting for him. Sally Field is incredibly likeable as well. She has never looked better and just explodes with energy all over the screen. She and Reynolds make an incredible team and are so fun to watch on screen.

The car chase scenes are pretty amazing. We see some great driving, and some humorous wrecks by the police. The highlight is undoubtedly the bridge jump (which is still impressive today), but all the scenes are good.

The cops, and particularly the Texas sheriff provide comedic relief as they narrowly miss the Bandit around every turn. The sheriff and his idiot son do actually provide some laughs, if only because they are so over-the-top, incompetent fools. We love seeing them fail constantly.

Smokey and the Bandit is a ton of fun, and it has lasted as a truly beloved movie. Yes, it is silly, but it is also harmless, and very entertaining. You will undoubtedly find yourself enjoying the movie. This is a contemporary classic that gets better with age.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend:
Smoke and the Bandit II, Smokey and the Bandit Part 3