What’s not to love about 80s action movies? From their over-the-top action scenes to their cheesy one-liners, these films have become legendary. And nothing symbolizes the badassery of these movies better than their car chases.
The Most Iconic 80s Action Movie Car Chases
When it comes to high-speed vehicular mayhem, these 80s action movies are in a league of their own:
1. The Blues Brothers (1980)
The Blues Brothers car chase scene is one of the most famous in movie history. The scene features Elwood Blues (Dan Aykroyd) and Jake Blues (John Belushi) escaping the police in a 1974 Dodge Monaco. The chase lasts for over 20 minutes and causes massive destruction, including the destruction of an entire shopping mall.
2. Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior (1981)
The Mad Max series is known for its high-octane vehicular mayhem, and The Road Warrior is no exception. In the movie, Max (Mel Gibson) drives a heavily modified Interceptor and goes head-to-head against a gang of marauders in a harrowing chase through the Australian outback.
3. Lethal Weapon (1987)
The Lethal Weapon franchise is famous for its buddy-cop dynamic and action-packed set pieces. The car chase scene in the first film is no exception. It features Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson) and Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover) pursuing a drug dealer through the streets of Los Angeles. The chase ends with the dealer’s car crashing through a building and exploding in a huge ball of fire.
4. Beverly Hills Cop (1984)
One of the most memorable scenes in Beverly Hills Cop is the car chase through Detroit. Axel Foley (Eddie Murphy) is chased by police in his beat-up Chevy Nova, which he uses to outmaneuver the cops and elude capture.
Tips for Enjoying an 80s Action Movie Car Chase
Watching an epic 80s car chase is an experience unlike any other. Here are some tips to enhance your enjoyment:
1. Turn Up the Volume
The sound of screeching tires and roaring engines is a vital part of the car chase experience. Make sure you turn up the volume to fully immerse yourself in the action.
2. Embrace the Cheesiness
80s action movies are known for their over-the-top cheese factor, and car chases are no exception. Embrace the inherent silliness of the chase and enjoy it for what it is – pure entertainment.
3. Appreciate the Practical Effects
Before the days of CGI, car chases had to be accomplished with practical effects. Appreciate the skill and craftsmanship that went into creating these death-defying stunts.
4. Suspend Your Disbelief
80s action movies were never meant to be taken too seriously. Suspend your disbelief and allow yourself to be transported into a world of explosions, one-liners, and adrenaline-pumping car chases.
In Conclusion…
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of 80s action movies or a newcomer to the genre, there’s no denying the thrill of an epic car chase. From The Blues Brothers to Beverly Hills Cop, these films have become timeless classics for a reason. So grab some popcorn, turn up the volume, and enjoy the ride.
And remember, if you ever find yourself being pursued by the police, just do what Axel Foley would do and outmaneuver them in a beat-up Chevy Nova.
