Watch These Car Films to Keep Boredom Away During Lockdown

At some point, most of us have wanted the same thing – a few days of relaxing at home as we binge-watch some great films. As we do our part to stop the spread of Coronavirus, this time of lockdown is perfect for plopping down and turning on some of the best car films ever made.

So, if you miss driving, let the cinematic experience take you back on the road. Here are a few films that you simply must watch.

Gone in 60 Seconds

There are two reasons to watch this film – first, its Oscar-bearer cast starring Nicolas Cage, Angelina Jolie, and Robert Duval. Second, it features 50 luxury cars, including a 1971 Ford Mustang, that is sure to capture your heart.

The film’s male protagonist – Memphis Raine – played by Cage, is an ex-convict who stole cars out of pure love for them – “I didn’t do it for the money. I did it for the cars”. Though retired from that life and running a gas station now, he is forced to steal 50 luxury cars, all in one night, to save his brother’s life. This mission is made even more difficult with a bunch of rival thieves and the police. Edgy and emotional, this film deserves a place in your movie binge session.

Bullitt

A 1968 car-chase classic, Bullit is a film that will have you on edge and rooting for police lieutenant Frank Bullitt played by Steve McQueen. Bullitt is in charge of the custody and protection of Johnny – brother to a mob boss – who is going to provide testimony against his brother to help Senator Walter Chalmers take him down.

The breath-taking car chase with the Ford Mustang, along with Steve McQueen’s phenomenal acting ability, makes Bullitt a favourite amongst the thriller movie buffs.

Grease

Want a movie that feeds your love for music, cars and romance? Well, Grease it is! Though it started as a phenomenal live theatre musical in 1971, Grease was turned into a film in 1978. The film will make you nostalgic for rock’n’roll, driving, and college life.

Sandy, the female lead, meets Danny, the male lead one summer while her family is vacationing in California. The two teenagers fall in love, but Sandy must return to Australia and fears she will never see Danny again. However, her family changes their plans and decide to stay. Sandy shows up at the local high school and crosses paths with Danny again. That’s when she realises that Danny is a leather-clad, cool kid. Pressured by his gang of friends, he is rude to Sandy though he still likes her. So, how does their romance transpire? Watch this evergreen film that is still popular for its songs “You’re The One That I Want”, “Grease Lightning” and “We Go Together”.

Ford vs Ferrari

This racing film, though released in 2019, is set in the 1960s. It tells the tale of seeking dominance in the motor industry and uses retro storytelling to maintain pace.

Carroll Shelby, an American automotive designer, and Ken Miles, a British racer come together to build a revolutionary vehicle for Ford Motor Company. The car they must build is to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France, the world’s oldest active sports car race in endurance racing. The two men navigate their way through personal inhibitions, their love for cars, and the laws of physics to build a vehicle ready to compete and win. This gripping and inspiring true story is an ideal watch for a lazy day.

Diamonds are Forever

This one is a James Bond classic with legendary Sean Connery essaying the title role. No Bond movie is ever complete without high speed car chases. Diamonds are Forever features the 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 in a grand chase to that involved some intense driving, including a scene where the pony is seen passing through a narrow alley on two-wheels.

While you may be unable to take your own set of wheels out for a spin right now, you can seek refuge in the world of cinema. So, make the most of your time at home and catch up on some brilliant films on cars.
Stay safe and be kind!