The Cannonball Run

Synopsis

The Cannonball Run, released in 1981 and starring Burt Reynolds, is a high-octane comedy that follows an eclectic group of racers competing in an illegal cross-country car race. Set against a backdrop of outrageous characters and vintage cars, the film captures the wild and humorous spirit of the 1970s and early 80s car culture. Driven by a mix of luck, cunning, and chaos, the participants encounter numerous comedic obstacles and zany mishaps in their quest to win the coveted Cannonball Run prize. With its star-studded ensemble cast and fast-paced antics, the movie offers lighthearted entertainment celebrating camaraderie and competition on the open road.

Cast

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  Burt Reynolds

  J.J. McClure

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  Roger Moore

  Seymour

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  Farrah Fawcett

  Pamela

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  Dom DeLuise

  Victor

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  Dean Martin

  Jamie Blake

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  Sammy Davis Jr.

  Fenderbaum

Reviews

The Cannonball Run has received mixed to negative reviews from critics, often praised for its star power and comedic moments but criticized for its lackluster plot and over-the-top silliness. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 6.2/10, reflecting mixed audience reception, with many viewers enjoying its nostalgic appeal and the chemistry among the cast. However, critical consensus remains less favorable; Rotten Tomatoes reports a 29% approval rating, highlighting that while the film contains moments of fun, it suffers from thin character development and a slapstick style that may not appeal to all. Metacritic’s score is even lower at 28/100, indicating generally unfavorable reviews from professional critics who found the film's pacing uneven and its humor outdated. Roger Ebert pointed out that the movie is more of a star-studded spectacle than a strong comedic narrative, noting it "feels like a long commercial for sports cars and celebrity cameos." Nevertheless, it maintains a cult following among fans of car chase comedies for its energetic performances and nostalgic value.