The Cannonball Run

The Cannonball Run is a 1981 American comedy film directed by Hal Needham and starring Burt Reynolds, Dom DeLuise, and Roger Moore. The movie is loosely based on the true story of the Cannonball Baker Sea to Shining Sea Memorial Trophy Dash, a cross-country road race that was actually held in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Set in the early 1970s, the film begins with an elderly Cannonball Baker (played by Dean Martin), a legendary motorcycle rider and the namesake of the infamous road race, who is forced to retire from racing. However, when he discovers that the U.S. speed limit has been reduced to 55 miles per hour, he decides that it's time for him to pass the torch to a younger generation of drivers. Brock Yates (played by Dom DeLuise), a former Navy pilot turned journalist, decides to organize a cross-country road race, the Cannonball Run, to protest the strict speed limits in place. Yates, who is also a participant in the race, recruits a motley crew of drivers, including J.J. McClure (played by Burt Reynolds), a down-on-his-luck millionaire, and his trusty sidekick Victor Prinzim (played by Terry Bradshaw, the former NFL quarterback). Also participating in the race is Jamie Blake (played by Dean Martin's son, Dean Paul Martin), a young driver who becomes infatuated with a beautiful woman named Pamela (played by Jacqueline Bisset), as well as Morris Fenderbender (played by Dom DeLuise), a hapless taxi cab driver who gets roped into driving a car with a malfunctioning transmission. Meanwhile, George Brougham (played by Sammy Davis Jr.) is a stuffy, by-the-book accountant who is forced to participate in the race by his boss. As the drivers embark on their cross-country journey, they encounter numerous obstacles, including roadblocks, police check points, and treacherous terrain. Along the way, they engage in a series of misadventures, including a wild high-speed chase through the streets of New York City. As the drivers near the finish line, they begin to take the race more seriously. J.J. and Victor find themselves locked in a heated battle with George, who is driving a high-tech, armored car. Meanwhile, Morris and his taxi cab driver sidekick begin to gain on the competition, thanks to their ability to navigate the road with ease. In the end, J.J. and George emerge as the top two finishers, with J.J. crossing the finish line a hair's breadth ahead of George. However, it soon becomes clear that George has been cheating by using his knowledge of traffic laws to his advantage. The Cannonball Run is a lighthearted, action-packed comedy that features a talented cast of characters. While it's not a particularly sophisticated film, it is entertaining and features a number of memorable performances, particularly from Burt Reynolds and Dom DeLuise. The film's themes of rebellion against authority and the joy of speeding are timeless, and make for a fun and thrilling ride. The movie also features a number of celebrity cameos, including the likes of Farrah Fawcett and Alex Rocco. The film's soundtrack features a number of popular hits from the 1970s, including "Mornin'" and "The Hustler," both of which are performed by Jerry Reed. In addition to its comedic themes, The Cannonball Run also features a number of impressive car stunts and high-speed chases. The film's action sequences are well-executed and thrilling, and add to the overall sense of excitement and adventure that permeates the film. Overall, The Cannonball Run is a fun, lighthearted comedy that is sure to appeal to fans of action movies and car enthusiasts. While it may not be a particularly complex or sophisticated film, it is entertaining and features a talented cast of characters.