The Merriam-Webster Dictionary describes a gearhead as “a person who pursues mechanical or technological interests (as in automobiles or computers).” Well, we’re not about computers. The thing about gearheads and cinephiles is that both have plenty in common with other people across the board. Furthermore, as watching films can entertain and help people relax, driving can do the same for gearheads.
Some people can, in fact, forget nagging problems once they are behind the wheel of a certain vehicle, just like watching movies can pretty much eliminate stress. So, these two passions have plenty in common, which explains why both worlds often make an explosive combination. The marriage between great cars and movie scripts have created some of the most enduring and popular fandoms in history.
Suffice it to say that great car movies give car lovers the opportunity to explore their relationships with the automobile. Below, we present twenty must-watch movies for everyone who loves cars, each offering a unique perspective on the world of fast cars and racing, and showcasing some of the most iconic vehicles in cinematic history. We guarantee these movies will definitely pique your interest with their focus on fast cars, motorcycles, and thrilling racing scenes.
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Corvette Summer is a classic coming-of-age story that follows a high school student who builds a custom Corvette and sets out on a wild adventure to find it after it's stolen. The film features plenty of high-speed chases and stunts, as well as some impressive car customization work.
Eat My Dust is another high-octane action comedy that centers around a young man who steals his father's car and goes on a wild joyride with his girlfriend. The film features plenty of high-speed chases and stunts, as well as some impressive car customization work.
Bullitt is a classic crime thriller that stars Steve McQueen as a detective who sets out to take down a powerful crime syndicate. The film is perhaps best known for its iconic car chase scene, which features a high-speed pursuit through the streets of San Francisco.
Le Mans is a classic racing movie that follows a team of drivers as they compete in the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans race. The film features plenty of high-speed racing action, as well as some impressive cinematography that captures the intensity of the race.
Ford versus Ferrari is a modern racing movie that tells the true story of the battle between the Ford Motor Company and Ferrari to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in the 1960s. The film features plenty of high-speed racing action, as well as some impressive performances from its lead actors.
Days of Thunder is a classic racing movie that stars Tom Cruise as a hotshot driver who sets out to win the Daytona 500. The film features plenty of high-speed racing action, as well as some impressive car customization work.
The Fast and Furious franchise needs no introduction to gearheads. The series has become a cultural phenomenon, with each new installment featuring high-speed chases, over-the-top stunts, and some of the most iconic cars in cinematic history.
Ronin is a classic action thriller that features some impressive car chases and stunts. The film follows a group of mercenaries who are hired to steal a mysterious briefcase, and features some of the most intense car chase scenes in cinematic history.
Smokey and the Bandit is a classic action comedy that stars Burt Reynolds as a truck driver who sets out to transport a shipment of beer across state lines while being pursued by a determined sheriff. The film features plenty of high-speed chases and stunts, as well as some impressive car customization work.
Vanishing Point is a classic road movie that follows a driver as he attempts to deliver a car from Colorado to San Francisco in record time. The film features plenty of high-speed driving action, as well as some impressive cinematography that captures the beauty of the American landscape.
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Gone in 60 Seconds is a classic car chase movie that centers around a group of car thieves attempting to steal 48 cars in one night. The film features some iconic American muscle cars and adrenaline-fueled chase scenes that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
The California Kid is another classic car movie that revolves around a small-town sheriff and his pursuit of a murderous hot rodder. The film features some stunning classic cars, including a 1934 Ford coupe and a 1957 Chevy Bel Air, which are sure to get any gearhead's heart racing.
The Driver is a crime thriller that follows a getaway driver who is hired by a group of criminals for a heist. The film features some intense car chase scenes and showcases the driving skills of the main character, making it a must-watch for any gearhead.
Harley and the Davidsons is a miniseries that tells the story of the founding of the Harley-Davidson motorcycle company. The series features some impressive motorcycle stunts and highlights the evolution of the iconic American motorcycle brand.
The Mad Max movies are post-apocalyptic action films that feature some of the most iconic vehicles in movie history, including the Interceptor, a modified Ford Falcon XB GT. The films are known for their high-speed chases and intense action scenes, making them a great choice for any gearhead.
The Cannonball Run are comedy films that follow a group of eccentric characters as they participate in an illegal cross-country race. The films feature some impressive car stunts and high-speed chases, making them a must-watch for any gearhead who loves a good laugh.
The World's Fastest Indian is a biographical film that tells the story of Burt Munro, a New Zealand motorcycle racer who broke the land speed record on his modified Indian motorcycle. The film features some stunning motorcycle scenes and showcases the passion and determination of Munro.
Grand Theft Auto is a comedy film that revolves around a young couple who steal a fleet of cars and go on a cross-country chase. The film features some impressive car stunts and showcases the beauty and power of classic American muscle cars.
The Gumball Rally is a comedy film that follows a group of eccentric drivers as they participate in an illegal cross-country race. The film features some impressive car stunts and high-speed chases, making it a must-watch for any gearhead who loves a good laugh.
American Graffiti is a coming-of-age film that takes place in the early 1960s and follows a group of teenagers as they cruise around town in their hot rods and muscle cars. The film features some iconic cars from the era and captures the spirit of American car culture in the 1960s.