Honorary Mentions

Though falling short of making it on our Top 10 Car Movies list all of these honorable mentions contribute their own unique perspectives and moments to the rich tapestry of car-themed cinema. Whether through comedy, drama, or adrenaline-pumping action, they offer something special for car enthusiasts and film lovers alike.

Cars: Pixar’s “Cars” stands out for its imaginative world where vehicles have personalities and emotions. The film introduced audiences to Lightning McQueen, a hotshot race car who learns the value of friendship and community in the small town of Radiator Springs. Its charming characters and stunning animation make it a beloved choice for car enthusiasts of all ages.

Talladega Nights: Will Ferrell’s comedic genius shines in “Talladega Nights.” The movie offers a hilarious take on the world of NASCAR racing and the flamboyant Ricky Bobby’s journey from racing stardom to redemption. The film’s absurd humor and unforgettable catchphrases have made it a favorite among fans of motorsports and comedy alike.

C’était un rendez-vous: Claude Lelouch’s “C’était un rendez-vous” is a legendary short film that offers a high-octane, real-time dash through the streets of Paris. Although not a traditional narrative, this six-minute thrill ride, filmed from a car-mounted camera, has become a cinematic classic and an ode to the visceral joy of driving.

Spirits of the Dead (Fellini Segment): Federico Fellini’s segment in “Spirits of the Dead” is a surreal journey through the Italian countryside in a stylish and eerie hearse. The segment, titled “Toby Dammit,” is a visually striking exploration of despair and the human psyche. While not primarily a car movie, the hearse serves as a symbolic element in Fellini’s masterpiece.

Road Warrior: George Miller’s “Road Warrior,” a post-apocalyptic action film, features a dystopian world dominated by vehicular warfare. Mel Gibson’s character, Max, navigates this wasteland, and his iconic Interceptor car(Ford Falcon) is a symbol of survival and revenge in a lawless world, making the film a standout in the genre.

Ronin: John Frankenheimer’s “Ronin” combines intense car chases with espionage and intrigue. The film’s standout sequences include pulse-pounding car chases through the streets of Paris. The cars, particularly the BMW E34 M5, play crucial roles in the high-stakes plot, adding an extra layer of excitement to this thrilling spy thriller.

Death Proof: Quentin Tarantino’s “Death Proof” is part of the “Grindhouse” double feature and pays homage to classic exploitation cinema. The film features exhilarating car stunts, with Kurt Russell playing a deranged stuntman who uses his “death-proof” car to terrorize unsuspecting women. The movie’s car-centered action sequences are a nod to the grindhouse genre.

Drive My Car: A more recent addition to the list, Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s “Drive My Car” is a Japanese film that beautifully combines a character-driven story with a love for automobiles. The film revolves around a theater director and his journey with a red Saab 900, exploring themes of love, loss, and artistic expression through the lens of a cherished car.

Tokyo Drift: The “Fast & Furious: Tokyo Drift” is a notable entry in the franchise known for its intense drifting sequences. Set in the vibrant Tokyo underground racing scene, the film brings the art of drifting to the forefront. The cars in this movie, especially the iconic Nissan 350Z, become extensions of the characters’ personalities, and the film has a dedicated fan base for its thrilling driving scenes. Arguably the film that drove new life into the franchise, this or Fast Five, and would reinvent the Fast and The Furious franchise.