'77, Grand Theft Auto '77 and Eat My Dust '76.
Knowing the other two are Roger Corman produced/Ron Howard's first directorial attempts figured Smokey & The Bandit with it's big name stars & budget would be the best to start with. Um no.
I found Burt Reynolds completely uncharismatic and that's a problem when there's a weak story and unfunny dialogue. It's as if we are supposed to find him so incredibly charming because of his smoldering handsome looks. He gives nothing.
All the more contrast in Sally Fields' top notch pro performance. I find her captivating and she actually acts, says her lines with emotion so we can get a sense of her charactor. She uses her face, body & voice to reach us and help tell this simple story.
The real star here is the stunt driving which is fun but you've seen one 360 skid turn, you've seen them both. All I could think of was my insurance. I do know this kind of action movie has it's fans but it's like skiing, I'd rather be doing it than watching others.
I was excited to see Jackie Gleason as a vindictive good ole boy Sheriff whose quest was to capture the "Bandit" but he was as offensive as Archie Bunker. Really, when people complain about how racist/sexist our society is, they have no idea - be thankful this sort aren't around any more. (or maybe it's just more hidden?)
About halfway through I just took out the DVD. Nothing's worse than just not caring what happens.
I put in Grand Theft Auto and in the first 15 minutes LIKED the charactors. Seems like the same kind of car stunt driving movie... grateful those guys had a chance to shine & show their talents. I'm more hopeful for these movies & will post about them later.
![Image](https://www.theglobaldispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Burt-Reynolds-Sally-Fields-Smokey-and-the-Bandit-promo-photo.jpg)