A Milestone and ever revolving Racing Movie Choices

A much younger Tomaso supporting TAG’, nee Indy 500 polesitter Alex Tagliani at IMS fountain race day. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Once again, being Everything One wishes to read about, Righto?

 

Yeah, I’m tootin’ my own horn here upon thoust mystical Isle ‘O Nofendersville. Uhm where are Yuhs ‘lil Toot-Toot!

 

Making it under Ye Foghorn, when that Foghorn Blows, sing it Van Morrison…

 

VIDEO: Into the Mystic

 

As where’s ‘Ol Jeffie’ of One Lap Down to tell me to stay focused Man, Outside, Still Outside…

 

Late last year. No Fender posted it’s Gory 5,000 blog story on Monday, December 22^nd. With that Oh, so delectable Happy Holley Four Barrel Holidayzes tiding, Aye Karumba!

 

As I could have “padded” this tally by posting about the tragic death of thee Biffster’, nee Greg Biffle, His family and three others, but will save for a later day…

 

Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d post 5,000 “riveting” blog stories, or still be going strong some 19-plus years later, Crikesy! Although I cannot imagine reaching 10,000 posts in another 20 years…

 

This all crystalized for Mwah when thinking about how my Top 10 racing movie choices have expanded and evolved over the past two decades. Since it all began with my elongated Grand Prix review Wayback’ over Christmas, or was it New Years eve, in Gory 2006. When No Fenders was still in “Nappies”, just some three-plus months old, Youza !

 

At that point in time, I only knew of four racing films, albeit two were definitely Clunkers! Leaving me with just Grand Prix and Le Mans. Before learning of three more thanks to the late Robin Miller, i.e.; Winning, The Big Wheel and To Please a Lady.

 

Yet with the arrival of Rush, now just over a dozen years ago; Uhm, a baker’s dozen. Naturally the debate over best racing films resurfaced.

 

RUSH: The Best Racing Movie of All Time?

 

Or Y’all can directly pass Go, without collecting your $200. And read Wee Willie Buxom’s Top 10 review below…

 

The Top 10 Racing Films… Ever

 

Hence, my racing movie choices expanded following Rush, becoming a true Top 10 finally, excluding Clunkers and Alternate choices.

 

Yet following the arrival of Ford v Ferrari in 2019, once again my list evolved, with a new Top 10 list written in 2020. Yet never making it onto thoust Hallowed pages of No Fenders. As Y’all know the drill here Mateys…

 

Thus, with the arrival of F1: The Movie last July, naturally this subject once again became all the rage. For which I finally hammered out and posted my current Top 10 list just days ago. Which didn’t include what have become outcasts or alternates. Whilst the Clunkers really shouldn’t surprise Yuhs.

 

Alternates

While I never saw The 2019 Art of Racing in the Rain movie. A “Pet” project of Dr. McDreamy, aka Patrick Dempsey, with Kevin Costner as Enzo’s voice. I did read the delightful 2008 book about Enzo the dog and His master’s Denny’s travails as a racing driver written by Garth Stein over a decade ago.

 

The Art of Racing in the Rain in More ways than One can  Conjure

 

Whilst you already know about the others noted above: Paul Newman’s Winning. Mickey Rooney’s The Big Wheel and Clark Gable’s To Please a Lady…

 

Clunkers

Shouldn’t even need to tell you or scribble what the worst racing film ever is! Like can Y’all say Joe Tanto? With Sly Stallone’s Driven undoubtably standing atop the podium!

 

Vice Champion, runner-up or second place belongs to Tom Cruise’s Dazes ‘O Blunder. (Days of Thunder( With Burt Reynolds Stroker Ace being third.

 

Hey, anyone wearing a Chicken suit in a racing film with Gomer Pyle sayin’ gollee is a lock for the podium…

 

Others

Naturally, everyone and their Dog, even Enzo has a Top 10 racing movies list. Having learned about Speed Racer, the film and the unknown of The Pit Stop when perusing Autoweek and Esquire’s Top 10 selections following the release of F1: The Movie.

 

Which if you’re curious? I’ll let your fingers do the walking and search the All knowing Intrawoods’ for others choices… 

Belated Top 10 Racing Movie choices

Soon once again, it’ll be time to release the Balloons! And All will be right in the Motorsports world. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

“Its really wonderful that APEX are giving second chances to the Elderly!”

 

As what better way to ring in thoust New Year then with some Zany leftovers, Eh? Since this topic came bubbling back up upon Ye Radar when “watching”, Err listening to Bloody Jense and Theodore, Not Lenny Kravitz’s Grid Walk at last year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix.

 

Where one British Fan on Social Media dryly noted it looked like Jenson (Button( and Ted were interviewing the tarmac! Before Ted asked Jenson if He wanted to talk to a real, live Formula 1 driver? Spotting JP’, aka Joshua Pierce on the Grid…

 

Reminding Mwah, I hadn’t lamented Y’all with my latest round of Top 10 Racing Movie choices, which I’ve been “sitting’ on awhile now…

 

No. 10 The Quick and The Dead

Release: 1978

This documentary film was originally released as One by One in 1975. The subsequently “repackaged as The Quick and The Dead in ’78.

 

The film is narrated by “Mike Hammer”, aka Stacey Keech and includes Jackie Stewart, Niki Lauda, Mike Hailwood, James Hunt, Francois Cevert and Peter Revson. Portraying the gruesome “deadliness” of Grand Prix racing from this much dangerous era.

 

All I recall from the film is the late Peter Revson wearing wrap around mirror sunglasses, being quite sure of Himself and brutally Frank. Obviously before His death during testing at Kyalami in 1974.

 

No. 9 Talladega Nights: The Story of Ricky bobby

Release: 2006

What more can I say than “slingshot On!” As this is a great comedic film about Roundy round racing, in which Will Ferrell as Ricky bobby is great. Whilst the “villain” Jean Girard (Sacha Baron Cohen) is wonderful too! And everybody knows about Talladega Nights…

 

No. 8 The World’s Fastest Indian

Release: 2005

Enjoyed this film that starred the great Anthony Hopkins, portraying Burt Munro. Known for having the fastest motorcycle in New Zealand and Australia in 1967.

 

Burt has a long standing dream of testing His Scooter’ on the Bonneville Salt Flats. And after many trials and tribulations. He eventually sets a new land speed record of 201.851mph! Which this 1967 record for Streamliner’s under 1,000cc still stands today.

 

No. 7 F1: The Movie

Release: 2025

Yeah, we all know about 40-something sonny Hayes making His F1 comeback with the APEX racing team, and the intra-squad scrum with His protégé Joshua Pierce. Along with the requisite “Fling” with the team’s Technical Director Kate McKenna…

 

As the film checked All the boxes for Apple with it’s first Big Screen Hit. And was popular with the non-racing crowds who saw it at theatre’s. Blending real racing action into the Hollywood movie, including all 20 Formula 1 drivers from the 2023 F1 season.

 

As the horrific Martin Donnelly 1990 Jerez crash footage still sent a chill into me some 35 years later! And Hayes parting line about “It’s not About the Money” can only make one laugh…

 

No. 6 Grand Prix

Release: 1966

This is the film that got this whole “Bailiwick” rolling! Since Grand Prix is an epic racing film directed by the legendous’ John Frankenheimer. Starring then MGM’s “golden Boy” James Gardner.

 

The racing footage is great, using real racing cars, with Gardner doing His own driving. With the film ruminating the “Highs and Lows” of motor racing, including the inherit risks of racing Open Wheel Racing cars during the 1960’s…

 

As I’d say this movie set the bar for all racing films that followed. And I won’t try re-inventing the wheel. Having scribbled’ about it Wayback’ in Gory 2006, Zoinks!

 

Grand Prix (The Movie)

 

No. 5 Le Mans

Release: 1971

Interestingly, the making of Grand Prix was pitted against Steve McQueen and John Surges intended racing film initially titled Day of the Champion, also intended to chronicle the life of racing. Yet the latter duo’s film ran into a variety of problems before being released as Le Mans in 1971.

 

Think everyone knows about this legendous’ film already, which for decades was my Numero Uno racing film. Due to it’s use of real racing cars at Circuit de la Sarthe. Most notably the iconic Gulf Porsche 917. Which I like many, had a Le Mans poster as a Wee lad’. Since I’d argue that Le Mans is still the racing film All others are judged against…

 

No. 4 Ford v Ferrari

Release: 2019

Although not as factually correct as Le Mans. Nonetheless, this film vaulted ahead of Le Mans after I “saw” it on the Big Screen. As Matt Damon plays a great Carroll Shelby. While the star of the film for Mwah was Christian Vale as Ken Miles, who I thought should have won an Oscar for Best Actor.

 

As the film is about Ford’s quest to defeat and dethrone Ferrari at Le Mans, which I scribbled about after “seeing” the movie.

 

Some Thoughts upon the Ford v Ferrari Movie

 

No. 3 Rush

Release: 2013

Having seen this excellent racing movie on the Big Screen, and knowing the backstory. Along with Ron Howard’s “Attention to Detail”. Plus the great psychological battle between the two Formula 1 title protagonists, Rush quickly vaulted ahead of my past top choices. For which like All major racing movies, the typical debate of where it ranked became a major “Talking Point”.

 

RUSH: An F1 Aficionado's Different View

 

No. 2 Ferrari

Release: 2024

What truly grabbed my attenzione over this film was it’s Brutishness and the Brutal reality of racing cars during the 1950’s. Along with excellently portraying Il Commendatore, nee Enzo Ferrari as a real piece of work! And how racing drivers are just expendable Pilotes’ for His exotic racecars…

 

Obviously, I’ve got zero clue if the film’s portrayal of the individual drivers writing letter’s to their significant other’s before going to battle was true. But that image plus the dialogue in my Descriptive Narration Headset describing the horrific scene following Alfonso de Portago’s death during the final stages of the 1957 Mille Miglia sent chills down my spine!

 

De Portago Who? Lost Formula 1 Bobsledder

 

No. 1 Senna

Release: 2011

What’s that famous ‘ol saying of Ayrton’s, Eh?

 

“If you see a gap and do not go for it, you’re no longer a racing driver!”

 

Even though Niki “The Rat” Lauda derides this film for being a documentary, and not a film, which is true. Nevertheless, it quickly became my latest Numero Uno choice! As the real, un-doctored footage is amazing, even if I couldn’t read the subtitles. I knew most of the backstory, i.e.; Senna’s rise thru the ranks of His Formula 1 career, from 1984 to that tragic day at Imola in 1994.

 

As there was no one larger than life than Ayrton Senna was, faults and all. For which the passion of the Brazilian Fans is all you need to see and hear to appreciate this movie!

 

SENNA: A Truly Great Movie! 

Announcers, Can we Please Stop Yelling!

As I’m already excited without you Screaming at me over Who’s the Winner! Like isn’t that what winners do, take the chequered flag?

 

There has been much debate over who should be FOX’s IndyCar Announce lineup next year. And it’s funny how our personal preferences effect us, Righto?

 

Although I’ve got absolutely nothing against Kevin Lee the person. I’ve been lamenting here upon No Fenders for years how I cannot stand His nauseatingly FAKE enthusiasm, ergo Yelling!

 

Yet AZ Buruea Chief Snowbyrd’ MJ just told me that She really enjoyed Kevin Lee during the Nashville season finale and His “infectious” enthusiasm.

 

Perhaps you’ve heard about six senses? And that Blind people have Super Powers! Like exceptional hearing, Uhm what did Yuhs say Sonny? Speak up Eh!

 

Although Tacoma Bureau Chief Mary ellen would tell you that my hearing sucks! Presumably from either one too many RUSH concerts or the plethora of IndyCar, Formula 1, Sports Cars, MotoGP or Vintage Races I’ve partaken over the decades…

 

Although if I had to guess, it would be from hearing a pack ‘O 3.0-litre normally aspirated Shrieking V-10 Formula 1 lumps’ one too many times over the years, but I digress…

 

AnyHoo, I simply cannot stand Kevin Lee’s FAKE, phony, manufactured excitement! Which sounds Horrific to my ears! And yes, I’m aware that other announcers also YELL at us, for no apparent reason.

 

As is this something taught at Journalism classes around the Globe? Since Sky Sports Formula 1 lead Presenter Kroftie’ (David Kroft) is a Screamer! And so is TNT Sports MotoGP lead Presenter Gavin Emmett!

 

While I’d have to say that my favourite International announcer, Err Presenter would be former Seattle Sounders FC great Arlo White! Who quickly got poached by NBC to head up their Premiere Soccer TV coverage. Whom I cannot recall ever Yelling…

 

This led me to try coming up with  a veritable top ten of motor racing announcers. For which I’ve only listed the trios I could recall below.

 

“Top 10” Motorsports Announcing Trios

1. Bob Varsha, David Hobbs and Steve Matchett: Formula 1

2. Paul Page, bobby Unser and Sam Posey: IndyCar

3. Bob Jenkins, Benny Parsons and Ned Jarrett: NASCAR

4. Bob Jenkins, Robbie Buhl and Jon Beekhuis: IndyCar

5. Bob Varsha, Dorsey Schroeder and Calvin fish: Sports Cars

6. Ken Squire, Ned Jarrett and David Hobbs: NASCAR

7. Leigh Diffey, Paul Tracy and Townsend Bell: IndyCar

8. Mike Joy, Darrell Waltrip and Larry McReynolds: NASCAR

9. Bob Varsha, Dario Franchitti and Steve Matchett: Formula E

10. Ken Squire, Buddy Baker and Dick Berggren: NASCAR

11. Alan Bestwick, Benny Parsons and Wally Dallenbach Jr: NASCAR

12. Bill Webber, Kyle Petty and Wally Dallenbach Jr: NASCAR

 

Hands down and no contest, Varsha, Hobbs and Matchett were simply the best ever! While I’d probably put Varsha, Franchitti and Matchett as second best with Page, Unser and Posey rounding out my mythical podium.

 

Whilst my list doesn’t include the likes of Jim McKay, Brian till or Adam Alexander as lead Play by Play Announcers…

 

As for Mwah, Jim McKay would be one of my “Gold” standards, but I didn’t list Him because as far as I can tell, McKay only ever worked as a “Twosome” in the TV Booth alongside another stellar Announcer voice; that being Chris Schenkel.

 

Brian till, whom I’ve always thought was excellent, seemingly has served as a backup lead Announcer over His long television career.

 

And Adam Alexander, who gets my nod to be the lead Announcer of FOX’s IndyCar broadcast next year has always been “enjoyable” to Mwah. As I know He was the lead Announcer for TNT’s NASCAR Summer series Wayback’ when. As I think He was teamed with Kyle Petty and perhaps Wally Dallenbach Jr? Knowing He’s worked with both of those Colour Commentators. But I couldn’t find out His exact NASCAR top tier booth “buddies”.

 

Alexander would seemingly check All of FOX’s “Boxes” (requirements) for a lead Announcer, being only 51 years old and well seasoned in this role, along with being employed by FOX.

 

Whilst I was unaware that Adam actually worked for the IndyCar Radio Network during the 2000’s. Being the Turn 3 Announcer for the Indianapolis 500 between 2004-06.

 

Since unfortunately, I’m Arse-suming FOX will continue the tradition of selecting “Youthful” looking, Easy on the Eyes Announcers. Which would make me think that both Brian Till and Alan Bestwick will be overlooked. Even though both would bring instant creditability to the announce booth. As these would be my first two choices for lead Announcer.

 

Rick Allen also comes to mind, although I don’t know if He’s locked into the Xfinity series broadcast?

 

While another voice I’d enjoy as the lead announcer would be Nicky Salt’ Yeoman from IndyCar Radio. As I feel He does an excellent job as the lead announcer of Indy NXT and IndyCar in general. But I think He’s Mark James Heir apparent and going nowhere…

 

As the only two consensus choices seem to be James Hinchcliffe as a Driver Analyst/Colour Commentator and Georgia Henneberry as a Pitlane Reporter. Which Kevin Lee would also be aptly suited for working the Pits. Just not as the lead Announcer, please!

 

Townsend Bell would fit well with FOX’s over the top mentality. And if you really wanted to spice up the Booth. Bring back Derek “Hang Onto your Hollyhocks!” Daly…

 

And that’s my two pesos worth on the subject. Since somehow I don’t think any FOX Executives will be calling me anytime soon for this lowly blogger’s opinion! Especially since the Cellphone reception’s really bad in my Mum’s basement… 

No Fenders Movie Choices: The Medals Round

As we’re finally down to finding out who’s on the podium…

 

If you’re still reading this riveting No Fenders prose, then congrats! As we’rve finally made it to the No Fenders Movie Choices Closing Ceremonies, Yeehaw!

 

(No. 5) Bact to The Future

Release Date: July 3, 1985

In lane five representing Canada is this epic film that ultimately spawned a trilogy, a la this ever continuing No Fenders story, Hya!

 

As I’m not sure who became the bigger star, Marty McFly or His radically altered DeLorean (DMC-12) time machine?

 

Arse-sumedly Y’all know the plot about Canadian born actor Michael J. Fox inevitably driving His friend “doc’s” (Christopher Lloyd) DeLorean time machine back to 1955 and almost causing His parents not to meet and ultimately marry…

 

As fox is best known for prominent roles on television’s Family ties and Spin city, along with All three Back to The Future movies. But is probably best known today from suffering from Parkinson’s disease, having retired from acting in 2020.

 

As the only question is. Will Marty McFly be able to reach 88mph before the stripe in order to induce time travel, grab the Gold medal and return in time to stand atop the podium?

 

(No. 4) American Graffiti

Release Date: August 11, 1973

Starting in lane four, this relatively low budget film directed by George Lucas and produced by Francis Ford Coppola went on to gross nearly some $200 million! With a cast that includes the likes of Richard Dreyfuss, Ron Howard, Cindy Williams, Harrison Ford and Mackenzie Phillips to name just a few. Oh yeah, how could I forget the Wolfman, as in Wolfman Jack Baby!

 

As the film chronicles several teenagers struggles with lives during the early 1960’s in California revolving around the burgeoning rock ‘n roll music and the automobile, i.e.; Hot rodding scene, including the requisite Drag race. As somehow, you’d think that the Wolfman would have won a medal…

 

(No. 3) Bullitt

Release Date: October 17, 1968

This is the film that started this whole idea some Gory four years ago now, Yikes! When I stumbledinto it one lazy afternoon during the COVID-19 Lockdown…

 

As this is the film that cemented Steve McQueen as a true Bad Arse for me! Regardless if He used it’s popularity to film His epic Le Mans movie two years later…

 

McQueen plays San Francisco police Detective Frank Bullitt chasing the Mobsters who’ve killed a wintness He was assigned to protect. But I’m not sure who’s more the star of this movie, McQueen or His nasty 1968 Ford Mustang!

 

As we All know this film involves arguably the best ever car chase scene, with McQueen, Err Frank Bullitt jumping His Mustang thru the streets of San Francisco All the way to the Bronze medal!

 

(No. 2) Gone in 60 Seconds (2000)

Release Date: June 9, 2000

For Mwah, this is one film’s remake that far out tops the original. For which I’ve seen the original 1974 film on TV more than once. And should have been smitten with it’s starring automobile “Eleanor”. Then a 1971 Ford Mustang modified with ’73 parts to loosely resemble the fleeting Mach 1 in School Bus yellow, even if others said it was Ford’s medium yellow gold.

 

Briefly toyed with saying the remake starring Nicolas Cage and Angelina Jolie  was representing Germany. Since I vividly recall the opening scene beginning with a brick being thrown through the window of a Porsche 911, it’s car alarm loudly shrieking as the thief gets away with the stolen Porsche!

 

Having Seen the 2000 version on Ye Big screen, and getting quite a rush from that opening scene!

Naturally, now nearly a quarter century later, I cannot recall if it was the targeted 911 twin turbo or the 996 model?

 

The plot based upon the 1974 movie revolves around stealing 50 targeted vehicles in a short amount of time (72 hours) for delivery dockside to awaiting transport in a cargo ship at the Long Beach docks.

 

Yet in the remake, once again the Mustang code named “Eleanor” becomes the trouble vehicle! This time being represented as a 1967 pepper gray with white twin Le Mans stripes Shelby GT500 replete with nitrous oxide. With is “G-O” button’s concealed underneath the top of the shift handle, which retired car thief Randla “Memphis” Raines (Cage) has saved for last on the list of fifty vehicles.

 

Memphis’ jumps the “Shelby” with the assistance of the engine’s “laughing gas”, but somehow doesn’t quite get away, or does He? Leaving this film netting the silver medal.

 

(No. 1) Smokey and The Bandit

Release Date: May 19, 1977

Are you really surprised by this choice? I mean like come on, Y’all couldn’t of guessed this, Eh? As we’re All Eastbound and Down, Righto?

 

As how can I even adequately surmise this great film that stars a legendous’ 1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am with a Flying Chicken on it’s hood!

 

Not to mention box office Hunk Burt Reynolds along with Sally field. Or the legendary Jackie Gleason playing Buford T. Justice shackled with His whimpering son.

 

Along with good ‘Ol Cledus Snowman’ Snow (Jerry Reed) puttin’ the Hammer down in His 18 Wheeler in order for Him and Bandit (Reynolds) to deliver Thar precious cargo just-in-time and easily take the Gold medal!

 

As “We’ve got a long way to go, and a short time to get there,

I’m Eastbound just watch ol’ “Bandit” run!”

 

As sing it Snowman, I’m Eastbound & Down…

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IOgUaFkpS3Y

 

Since probably everybody has an opinion or three upon Thar own Top-10 movies rendition, or who should have won the gold medal . Here's just one such listing I perused to help me focus on my own choices along the way…

 

https://www.thedrive.com/opinion/12313/top-10-car-movies-of-all-time 

No Fenders Movie Olympics: The Chase continues

As who’ll advance to the mythical Finals round?

 

Yessiree Bob, bob’s your Uncle, Oh Never Mind! As we’re finally dipping into some of our “Finals” contestants Y’all…

 

(No. 11) Christine

Release Date: December 9, 1983

Since I typically refrain from “watching”, Err listening to any of the Olympics, be it summer or winter. I thought a movie about “terror” was totally Apropos for these Nofendersville Games!

 

As I’d have to say I’m more a Fan of Graveyard Carz’ Christine recreation with it’s 1,000bhp “Hellephant” Mopar crate engine propelled ’58 Fury. Even if I can no longer find the show on thy Telie…

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2020/05/autos-few-tv-car-show-rewinds.html

 

Yet Stephen King’s classic Horror novel turned into film by John Carpenter revolving around the red and white 1958 Plymouth Fury name Christine with it’s possessive, jealous nature and having a mind of it’s own is a true classic.

 

As who knows. Perhaps Christine can persuade me to tune into some of this year’s Paris Olympics Mon Cherree?

 

(No. 10) Tucker: The Man and His Dream

Release Date: August 12, 1988

This movie has always intrigued me, albeit I’ve never “seen” it. Thus it falls just outside of making the Finals round.

 

The movie was a “Pet” project of Francis Ford Coppola, whose father had been a stock investor in the company and bought a Tucker 48 during it’s short lived production.

And while film critics said Jeff Bridges who starred as Preston tucker was fantastic. Nevertheless, it was considered a Box Office failure…

 

(No. 9) Who Killed the Electric Car

Release Date: June 28, 2006

Having seen this film on the Big Screen, I enjoyed Martin Sheen’s wonderful narration. And was surprised to rediscover that Tom Hanks (recorded) and Mel Gibson were in this film.

 

The movie is centered around the General Motors EV1’s short lived production. Specifically built to meet the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) mandate of the 1990’s for All major Automobile manufacturers to offer Electric Vehicles (EV’s) to the public in their state in order to continue selling their gasoline production models.

 

Yet due to relentless pressure from the Oil Industry, CARB eventually relented and scrapped this rule, with GM then hauling off it’s fleet of EV1’s to the Crusher!

 

Although I believe I once saw one of these on display at Tacoma‘s wonderful Americas Car Museum? Where I know there was a Chevrolet Volt on hand during an Electric Vehicles exhibit…

 

(No. 8) The French Connection

Release Date: October 7, 1971

And now we’re down to our final eight contestants, making the finals. And in outside lane number eight is the sole representative of France. Hey, we’ve gotta have at least one French film in this Summer’s movie choices, Righto?

 

Yet I must confess I cannot recall seeing this movie. Although I knew Gene Hackman was in it. Starring alongside Roy Scheider and Fernando Rey.

 

As the theme sounds vaguely familiar. With two Detectives trying to catch and break-up a Herroin Drug Ring. With the requisite car chase scenes in it. Along with the drugs being cleverly hidden in once such vehicles rocker panels…

 

(No. 7) (Mad Max 2 ) The Road Warrior

Release Date: December 24, 1981

Representing our Down Under Aussies’ is this epic classic. Although Mad Max will probably attempt driving over the other finalists from His outside lane seven starting position!

 

Although I enjoyed the original Mad Max movie, this sequel is my favourite. Having never seen any of the other later Franchise movies…

 

As Mad Max, played by Mel Gibson driving the last of the V-8 Interceptors cruises the roads in search of the ever elusive, precious “Black gold”, better known as petroleum.

 

As Max ultimately helps a small community with one of the few working Oil wells escape to a safe fefuge while leading the gang of savages who want the contents of a weaponized Oil hauler that Max valiantly drives as the decoy while the others escape in a school bus…

 

(No. 6) Thunderbolt and Lightfoot

Release Date: May 24, 1974

Suppose I telegraphed this choice making it into the Finals. Y’all know, previously musing when beginning this long ago Top-10 montage; Thunderbolt and Lightfoot sprang to mind…

 

This has always been one of my favourite Clint Eastwood films, even if Eastwood felt that co-star Jeff Bridges stole the show!

 

As it’s Americana at it’s best during the 1970’s. With Lightfoot stealing multiple cars, Thunderbolt being the older, wiser Bank robber and the usual irony of the two men who are having a Bromance’ ultimately finding the missing money, before one dies due to previously being Pistol whipped by one of Thunderbolt’s former Gang members… 

No Fenders unveils it’s Summer Olympics Movie choices

On your mark, get set, Go! Although hopefully we won’t get Warshed’ Out on the Seine…

 

Per Typical here upon thoust mystical Isle 'O Nofendersville, your Humble No Fenders Scribe Tomaso switches Tracks quite regularly; choo-Choo, All Aboard, Hya!

 

Hence upon going down a Steve McQueen Bullitt Movie Wabbit’ Hole now some Gory four years ago, Crikeys! When we were sheltering Inside and trying to Stay Safe from COVID-19. My Mind began Ah-wonderin' about veritable things to do to pass the time by.

 

Alas, I began thinkin', Think Pink Ye Pink Panther, Shuhzamm! About veritable Top 10 Choices of Movies 'N songs to keep ourselves amused.

 

Yet like that year’s summer Olympics in Tokyo, which were delayed until the summer of 2021. These Car Culture movie choices also slid past. But now that we’re into the doldrums of the Paris Olympics, what better time for our competitors to appear, eh?

 

And without further Adu, here goes Nothin', as these are just my Zany, Unscientificaly Formulated Choices for Automobile related (Culture) Movies. For which I'll confess, originally I struggled to come up with ten Car Movies I'd personally watched over thoust years, whilst other selections I've decided are “Racing” Movies instead. Along with such gems as Corvette Summer springing to mind - originally in my Top 10 selections, Hya!

 

While others didn’t advance to the Summer Olympic Movie Finals due to double faulting.

 

And being the stupendous Track & Field Fan I am, I believe that the finals are run with only eight competitors, El Correctomundo? Leaving us with this wacky, altered Top-10 version…

 

Enjoy!

Tomaso

 

(No. 16) Corvette Summer

Release Date: June 2, 1978

Not sure why this movies stands out so strongly in Ye Cranium, especially since I'm guessing that Mark Hamill would prefer I forgot about it, Righto? Although being his first movie after that unexpected Blockbuster called Star Wars, the film grossed over four times it's $9m budget!

 

As the movie portrays Luke Skywalker, Err Hamill chasing after his elusive customized '73 Vette with the typical boy meets Girl (Annie Potts) subplot thrown in. Which I suppose is why it finished last upon track during this 10,000 meters Movie Steeplechase…

 

(No. 15) Vanishing Point

Release Date: March 13, 1971

Never saw this movie, since it came out originally when I was a Wee lad’. And although it stars a very cool 1970 Dodge Charger R/T10 Magnum 440cid V-8 Muscle Car, the plot of the movie just seems absolutely outta control, becoming wilder 'n wilder and an absolute Trainwreck to Mwah! Whilst I'm happy to say that I've also never seen the '97 remake, which seem worthy of mentioning…

 

 

(No. 14) The Italian Job

Release Date: June 5, 1969

Although the title would leave you inclined to believe this was our only Italian film to make the preliminary Heat. Nonetheless, it failed to advance due to it being a British “Crew” out to heist Gold from an Armoured Truck in Turin., Italy

 

And although I cannot say I ever saw the original, it is a Cult classic. And I must have seen the 2003 remake replicating those original Austin Mini Mk II’s driving down the Palazzo Madama. With this famous scene of then BMW Mini’s escaping down another set of stairs once again in Italy, Mama Mia!

 

Interestingly, I just learned it’s soundtrack was produced by the legendary Quincy Jones, a Seattle icon…

 

(No. 13) The Cannonball Run

Release Date: June 19, 1981

Originally I had this film in the “Finals” bracket, but like it’s zany All Star Cast members, with way too many crazy antics, it Double Faulted and failed to advance.

 

Believe I only ever saw this film multiple times on TV. As it sprang onto my collective “radar” for the wrong reasons, i.e.; Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. dressed up as Catholic Priest. When I should have been recalling the two “Hotties” played by Adrienne Barbeau and Tara Buckman in form fitting spandex racesuits driving a black Countach!

 

Whilst Burt Reynold and His alter ego Don DeLuise as Captain Chaos are joined by the likes of Roger Moore, Terry Bradshaw, Farah Fawcett and Jamie Farr to name just a few others in this film recreating the 1979 Sea to Shining Sea Cannonball Baker memorial trophy run. An outlaw car race from Connecticut to California.

 

(No. 12) Dirty Mary Crazy Larry

Release Date: May, 1974

Suppose this is what happens when you're trying to use your Wayback Machine; as where are Yuhs Marty McFly, Eh?

 

As I'd just watched Unforgiven on Ye Boob-tube' just days prior to beginning my original Top-10 academy choices and Wallah! Ye Thunderbolt and Lightfoot film sprang to mind

 

Since weirdly, the final scene of a movie came to mind, when the "Bad Guys" think they've finally outwitted Johnny Law', even causing the Sherrif's Helicopter to run out of fuel. And as they emerge from the nestle 'O trees they've been hiding on and merrily head upon Thar way, WHAMOE! Smack into an unexpecting Freight-train!

 

As this is another movie with just a really far fetched plot, not to mention it’s RASCAR’ connotation, but it still resonates on Thy Memorex, even if I’d originally Cornfuzed it with Thunderbolt and Lightfoot… 

Top 10: A Veritable Baker's Dozen's Plus 'O Car Songs, Take 2!

Yeah, I never was real good at Ah-Countin', Y'all! Since two Baker’s Dozen would equal 26 Me Thinks, and that’s the Car Number I currently like least in IndyCar’s! So we’ll see if you can figure out what Driver’s number I chose instead…

 

Yeah, like much of Ye Nation, and Globe, guess what happens when you've got Cabin Fever-itus' occurring? Yep, Yuhs come up with another riveting Top 10 list, which 'Ol David Letterman immortalized with his now somewhat forgotten nightly Late Show Top 10 lists many years ago…

 

Full disclosure, when I originally watched, err listened to the latter portion of Bullitt now over a Gory year ago, I began thinking 'bout many things Car related during thou COVID 19 Lockdown last March, which Shot me down this Wabbithole', but was further weigh laid whilst ceaselessly trying to resolve my winDOUGHS 10 Zoomtext 2020/Zoomtext Fusion 2021 Screen Reader issues, along with the Bastardized Blooger’ redesign, BARF! Before getting lost when Poondin’ Out other riveting No Fenders stories here upon Ye Isle 'O Nofendersville for your Dining pleasures.

 

And like All of my Zany top 10 list categories, this one's just what Sprung to mind initially, with No Heavy Deliberations and was my First Take, enjoy!

Tomaso

 

Surfs Up'

Was gonna G-O with Wax On, Wax Off', but thought it may cause some Gutter Thoughts by the Fringe Elements of my readership, Eh? As you'd have to say that the 1960's California Cool and Surfing Scene was Highly Instrumental in the Car Culture's Musical Genre.

 

No. 21 Fun, Fun, Fun

Artist: The Beach Boys (1964)

Yeah, you're All gonna wanna take my Keyboard away, Righto? As here's another of this most instrumental Band's five songs making Thy No Fender Charts, the most by any Artist, Naturally…

 

20. No Sugar Tonight

Artist: The Guess Who (1970)

Had to include a Guess who song in my Zany Car songs lineup, specifically since I always mistakenly think they’re the Band who sung Radar Love for reasons unknown. And you’re probably gonna need a Coffee to keep reading my whole tally of songs! Then again, you might be thinking of Golden Earring’s other “Hit” song Twilight Zone after reading this, Hya!

 

 

19. I Get Around

Artist: The Beach Boys (1964)

Yeah, for obvious reasons, The Beach Boys feature prominently in this two part Harmony, Uhm my meandering Top-10ish Car Song melody, err tome. Since after all The Beach Boys can arguably be claimed as Thee Band that pushed Surf Rock to the Top of it's Wave, Hang 10!

 

18. Mennonite Surf Party

Artist: The Rev Billy C. Wirtz

Continuing on this humorous theme of Surf Rock and Good Driving music, I had little trouble coming up with the presumably 'lil known Reverend Billy C Wirtz, who's one of my favourite Off-beat Artist's upon first hearing his most famous song Roberta a long time ago on a long Defunct Seattle Radio Station called KXRX.

 

As I first learned of this song years ago via Zed Internets showing a live performance somewheres' in presumably a non descript Hotel lounge when On the Road. And I chose this song over his more Down-tempo Grandma's Behind the Wheel since it's Surfing related, which always ties in with Hot Rods, Righto?

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-YXmchNwfQ

 

17. Surfin’ U.S.A.

Artist: The Beach Boys (1963)

Yeah, another Beach boys song. Hey, after all they’re the impetus for this Wacky Top 10X2 No Fenders list. As I needed one more song to get to my final number, and how can you go wrong with Surfin’ U.S.A? Especially since it was considered the No. 1 Song of 1963 for awhile…

 

16. Legs

Artist: ZZ Top (1984)

How could I not include this amazing 'lil 'Ol Texas Crunch Trio and one of Thar Hit Songs from their Mega Hit Album Eliminator, which features that iconic ZZ Top Billy gibbons Hot Rod on it's cover. Since Y’all know how Billy likes sayin’ They got A  lot of Nice girls Out Thar, How How How!

 

15. Running Down A Dream

Artist: Tom Petty (1989)

This  is the only After-thought on the entire list, as it’s got a great “Driving vibe,” since I was trying to put the Pedal Down to Make Some time Indeedy! Since this “Overflow Parking” portion of my meandering Top 10-ish tome was definitely a ‘lil runaway Yeah Yeah Messer Petty…

 

14. Walk, Don't Run

Artist: The Ventures (1960)

As this list was constantly Growing 'N Growing inside My Internal Jukebox', I suddenly began hearing the melody to this song, which interestingly is the lone Instrumental song on my list, which made it somewhat hard to learn who the Artist was?

 

Originally Dean and The Surfers sprang to mind, which when I Googled that it responded with Jan and Dean. Nope, that Ain't It Kiddoes', and Yeah, I know I left out Wipeout intentionally. Which Y'all might be Ah-Thinkin' Whuh-Whuh-Whuh Wipeout when Yuhs read this Indeedy!

 

thus by various queries, I learned it was actually The Ventures who made this Hit the most famous version of the song, since reportedly it peaked at No. 2 on the Hot 100 Billboard ranking, Denied of the No. 1 Slot by Elvis Presley's It's Now or Never.

 

Whilst I had Zero Clue that The Ventures originated from my ex-Backyard in Tacoma, Warshington' Wayback in 1958, formed by Don Wilson and Bob Bogle. Hmm, Strange Days Indeed…

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WW21rcHiVU0

 

And Yeah, I chose Longs Doughnuts since it's one of IndyCar's Curmudgeon 'Ol r', aka Robin Miller's favourite foods, albeit we should All be Hankerin’ for a Milk shake ore even better yet. As ‘Ol Kimi Raikkonen would say, an Ice Cream!

As ‘ol Casey Kasem would say, the Countdown Rolls On…

 

To find out what Clocks in for selections 13 to No. 1. Please visit the following No Fenders link below.

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2021/07/the-overflowing-longs-doughnutz-holes.html