The other night I am watching Collateral (2004) which is essentially a typical Michael Mann movie where we have 2 central male leads and some how in our exploration of them Mann is going to demonstrate that they are two ends of the same stick. Anyway the reason I bring this up is that one of the highlights for me of the film is the opening scene in which takes place inside the Taxi of Max (Jamie Foxx) as we observe an at times insightful conversational exchange with Jada Pinkett Smith's character Annie, whilst a quite soulful Groove Armada number adds a lush tone to the scene.
So it had me think about other classic in car movie moments, and in an effort to become more interactional I thought I'd invite you to share you most revered in car movie memories. It could be a car chase like some of my favourites such as Nic Cage tearing up the streets of San Francisco in the The Rock (1996) or Steve McQueen doing likewise in Bullitt (1968). It may be a Road Movie or as mentioned earlier a one off scene.
Any way this is what I'm bringing to the table.
1. Seven (1995)
Scene: Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman and Kevin Spacey
In order to complete his murderous masterpiece John Doe (Spacey) strikes a deal with detectives Mills (Pitt) and Somerset (Freeman) which culminates in the trio's fated car journey. What makes the scene work is the dynamic of control and restraint, Somerset is the driver but Doe is the navigator shackled in hand cuffs, yet Mills is the one who seems caged. It's a classic 3 way battle for supremacy with an atmosphere you could cut with a spoon, highlighted by Morgan Freeman's occasional glances into to his rear view mirror which sit somewhere between fear and fascination.
2. Vanishing Point (1971)
Barry Newman's task appears simple as Kowalski he must deliver a white 1970 Dodge Challenger from Denver to San Francisco by Monday. After small bet and and troubled encounter with law the delivery in addition becomes a chase. With only the help of DJ Super Soul to guide him Vanishing Point is a superbly cool and psychedelic race against the odds, filled with a smoothly joyful soundtrack and a sense of infinite wonder and open interpretation.
What are yours?
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