The Cannonball Run (1981)

A cross-country road race is based on an actual event, the Cannonball Baker Sea to Shining Sea Memorial Trophy Dash, organized by Brock Yates to protest the 55 mph speed limit then in effect in the U.S. The Cannonball was named for Erwin G. "Cannonball" Baker, who in the roaring 20's rode his motorcycle across the country. Many of the characters are based on ruses developed by real Cannonball racers over the several years that the event was run.

Genres: Action, Comedy, Family

What to watch after The Cannonball Run

• Hooper (1978) — Hal Needham directed both
• The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (1982) — Same feel: fun, irreverent
• Smokey and the Bandit (1977) — Same feel: fun, boisterous
• Sharky's Machine (1981) — Burt Reynolds appears in both
• Any Which Way You Can (1980) — Same feel: fun, boisterous
• Support Your Local Gunfighter (1971)