Smokey and the Bandit
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Smokey and the Bandit is a 1977 American action-comedy film directed by Hal Needham and it was distributed by Universal Pictures. The film starring Burt Reynolds, Sally Field, Jerry Reed, and Jackie Gleason. The film was released on May 27, 1977.
Plot
Big Enos (Pat McCormick) wants to drink Coors at a truck show, but in 1977 it was illegal to sell Coors east of the Mississippi River without a permit. Truck driver Bo "Bandit" Darville (Burt Reynolds) agrees to pick up the beer in Texas and drive it to Georgia within 28 hours. When Bo picks up hitchhiker Carrie (Sally Field), he attracts the attention of Sheriff Buford T. Justice (Jackie Gleason). Angry that Carrie will not marry his son, Justice embarks on a high-speed chase after Bandit.
Why It Rocks
- The Bandit is a funny and likable protagonist even though he breaks the law.
- Very funny moments like when Buford tells a fast-food lady "Let me have a Diablo sandwich and a Dr. Pepper and make it fast, I'm in a goddamn hurry!"
- The performances are well done.
- Good voice acting.
- Excellent soundtrack.
- The car chases and crashes were good.
- Mort Engelberg did a good job producing the film.
- Buford T. Justice is a very amusing character.
- A properly written and decent storyline.
The Only Bad Quality
- Buford T. Justice's ill-mannered attitude is offensive.
Reception
The film was well-received by critics, and audiences alike currently holds an 80% on Rotten Tomatoes, rating based on 30 reviews. The site's consensus states, "Not much in the head but plenty beneath the hood, Smokey and the Bandit is infectious fun with plenty of car wrecks to keep your eyes glued."