Retro Film Favorites: The Car (1977-Universal Pictures)

As a child of the 70’s, this film has a special place in my heart. Long before the appearance of a certain 1958 Plymouth Fury known as Christine in Stephen King’s novel and a film, the star of this movie, a modified 1971 Lincoln Continental Mark III would debut on movie screens on Friday the 13th, May 1977.

(TINDER Profile Pic: The Car)

The movie stars James Brolin, Ronny Cox, R.G.Armstrong and future Real Housewives of Beverly Hills stars Kim and Kyle Richards.

(Josh Brolin’ and Ronny Cox in The Car)

The story is a simple one. An evil car terrorizes a small desert town. The Sheriff played by James Brolin and his deputies must come up with a plan to destroy the possessed car.

(The Car, as seen in The Car. It cost $84,000 to acquire and modify and was built by George Barris)

My favorite scene is when The Car chases a group into a cemetery, but will not cross the border to it. Why? It’s hallowed ground and this demon car can’t cross that holy line.

There’s another great scene where the car literally jumps through a kitchen window. How? Because it can! Don’t ever question a demon-possessed car.

(Kathleen Lloyd, Elizabeth Thompson, Kim and Kyle Richards as seen in The Car)

This is a really fun B-Movie watch and holds up really well even after 45 years. While researching this film I came across some trivia that fans often argue about who would win in a battle, The Car or Christine. Christine does have rejuvenating powers, but The Car is indestructible. I think The Car edges out Christine here unless you have a supply of holy water on hand or a know a really good Car Exorcist.

(James Brolin and The Car)

The Car is now streaming on multiple platforms for a small rental fee.

Additional Details

Running Time: 1 hour 36 minutes

Rated: PG for rampant car violence and general mayhem