Last month’s Fast & Furious proved once again that cinema going audiences have a deep fascination with car movies. Even with a horrible script, poor direction and appalling acting the sheer mention of a motor vehicle made it one of the biggest financial successes of the year. I am by no means above this attraction, as despite having a rudimentary understanding of car engines and having seen enough films to know better, I walked away from Vin Diesel’s romp with a deep desire to get into a street race. When it’s all said and done, we all love a good car chase.

It would seem as through most actions films are required by law to include a race of the horsepower variety but not all of them have become classics. When done right, these moments beautifully capture the energy, brutality and excitement of the car chase and are forever etched in the memory of the viewer. 

While Fast & Furious was harmless enough we have compiled our top ten movie car chases to show the filmmakers how it’s really done. So sit back, adjust your mirrors, put your seat belt on and hang on for the ride.  

10. Grindhouse (2007)
A recent entry shows the mastery of Tarantino's directorial abilities during his segment, Death Proof. After some unnecessary dialogue the action and tension builds to a brutal and beautiful finale. Ignore the DVD release and go straight to the Astor Theatre to witness the movie in its original glory.

 

9. Ronin (1998)
By no means a great film but the incredible car chase through the all too narrow streets makes your heart pound from start to finish. 



8. T2 (1991)
Combine a motorbike, truck and two robots from the future and you get Arnie’s proudest moment.
 



7. The Italian Job (1969)
Ignore the remake and watch Michael Caine in this 1969 car caper film in the beautiful city of Turin.
 



6. Vanishing Point (1971)
Driving a Dodge Challenger from Denver to San Francisco in 15 hours sets the context for spectacular car chases.



5. Mad Max II: The Road Warrior (1981)
No one has ever done post apocalyptic car chases better. Why do we need another sequel?
 



4. The French Connection (1971)
Jason Bourne owes more than a debt of gratitude to this gritty New York car chase. No CGI anywhere, are you listening Justin Lim?



3. Gone in 60 Seconds (Original)
If you can forgive the cheap production values you will understand why Nicholas Cage felt compelled to remake it.

 

2. Blues Brothers (1980)
The scope and sheer level of destruction make this a truly memorable moment.
 



1. Bullitt (1968)
The chase scene that has inspired thousands and by which all will be judged. Seriously how cool is Steve McQueen?