The Sugarland Express

IMDB
First time viewed: No
Current Release: No
Watched With: Myself

The Beard's first theatrical feature film. Most people overlook this and jump straight to Jaws but this film has a lot to offer. I love the feel of the early Spielberg films. I decided to watch this one again because I have heard it mentioned as a reference in a lot of reviews of the new sci-fi road comedy Paul. Apparently there are a lot of Spielberg references so I'm extra excited for that now.

I see Matthew Robbins' name pop up again as one of the writers. More importantly this is the first time Steven Spielberg and John Williams worked together on a film. Match made in heaven.

The acting here is great. I sometimes find Goldie Hawn annoying but she is just on fire here sinking her teeth into this great character. She is a standout.

Based on a true story, I love the way the bad situation just escalates throughout the running time until there is only really one way it can possibly end. It's funny, poignant, heartbreaking and filled with a lot of car action and gun shoot outs. So many 70's cars. It also features one of the few real downbeat endings in a Spielberg film but it still manages to feel nostalgic somehow. Maybe just because it's old. heh.

If you've never seen this one it's definitely worth checking out. Anything Spielberg directs is always, at the very least, well made.