Sandye Delvalle

Written by Sandye Delvalle

Modified & Updated: 04 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

31-facts-about-the-movie-used-cars
Source: Amazon.com

Used Cars is a film that has captured the hearts of movie lovers around the world. Released in 1980, this hilarious comedy directed by Robert Zemeckis is filled with memorable characters, outrageous situations, and plenty of laughs. Set in a small town in Arizona, the story revolves around a used car lot and its eccentric staff who will do anything to make a sale.

In this article, we will dive deep into the world of Used Cars and uncover 31 fascinating facts about the movie. From behind-the-scenes trivia to interesting tidbits about the cast and crew, this comprehensive guide will give you a greater appreciation for this comedic gem. Whether you’re a longtime fan or someone curious about this cult classic, get ready to rev your engines and discover the untold stories behind Used Cars!

Key Takeaways:

  • “Used Cars” is a hilarious 1980 comedy film about the wild world of used car salesmen, featuring memorable characters, witty dialogue, and a satirical take on the industry.
  • The movie’s success led to a cult following, showcasing the power of entertainment to deliver social commentary and timeless humor, making it a must-watch for comedy enthusiasts.
Table of Contents

The movie “Used Cars” was released in 1980.

The film was directed by Robert Zemeckis and starred Kurt Russell in the lead role. It is a comedy film that revolves around the used car business.

The storyline of “Used Cars” is set in a fictional used car dealership called “New Deal Used Cars” in Arizona.

The movie explores the hilarious and often shady world of used car salesmen and their unconventional tactics to make sales.

The movie features an ensemble cast, including Jack Warden, Gerrit Graham, Deborah Harmon, and Frank McRae.

These talented actors bring humor and depth to their respective characters, adding to the overall entertainment value of the film.

“Used Cars” was written by Robert Zemeckis and Bob Gale, who later collaborated on the “Back to the Future” franchise.

The witty dialogue and clever storytelling in the movie reflect the talents of these two critically acclaimed writers.

The film was produced with a budget of $8 million.

Despite modest funding, the movie managed to create a memorable and engaging experience for viewers.

“Used Cars” received positive reviews from critics.

The film was praised for its humor, energetic performances, and satirical take on the used car industry.

The movie features several memorable scenes and one-liners.

From high-speed car chases to outrageous marketing strategies, “Used Cars” keeps audiences entertained from start to finish.

The film was a moderate box office success, grossing over $11 million worldwide.

While not a blockbuster hit, “Used Cars” managed to turn a profit and gained a loyal following over the years.

“Used Cars” has become a cult classic.

The film’s unique blend of comedy, satire, and social commentary has made it a favorite among movie enthusiasts.

The movie showcases the competitive nature of the used car business.

Through its characters and their relentless pursuit of sales, “Used Cars” highlights the cutthroat environment of this industry.

“Used Cars” was partly inspired by real-life experiences of co-writer Bob Gale, who worked at a used car dealership.

This adds an authentic touch to the film’s portrayal of the industry.

The film features an iconic advertising campaign called “Beat the Reaper.”

This campaign showcases the dealership’s unorthodox methods of attracting customers, including staging a fake funeral procession.

The movie’s soundtrack includes popular songs from the 1960s and 1970s.

The music adds nostalgia and enhances the overall atmosphere of the film.

“Used Cars” includes a memorable climactic scene involving the demolition of an automobile at a live TV event.

This sequence adds excitement and serves as a culmination of the film’s main plotlines.

The movie explores themes of perseverance, ambition, and the triumph of the underdog.

The character arcs in “Used Cars” demonstrate the power of determination and the ability to overcome obstacles.

The film’s humor is both slapstick and satirical in nature.

It successfully balances physical comedy with clever wit, appealing to a wide range of comedic preferences.

“Used Cars” showcases the evolution of the used car industry over time.

It sheds light on the changing practices and strategies employed by salesmen in this business.

The movie contains several car stunts and action-packed sequences.

These thrilling moments add an extra layer of excitement to the overall viewing experience.

The film’s dialogue is filled with memorable quotes.

Lines like “If you can’t trust a used car salesman, who can you trust?” have become iconic in popular culture.

“Used Cars” received an R rating for its adult language and comedic content.

This rating ensures that the movie is suitable for mature audiences.

The film’s success helped propel the careers of its cast and crew.

Kurt Russell, in particular, received praise for his charismatic performance and went on to establish himself as a leading actor in Hollywood.

“Used Cars” was nominated for the prestigious Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.

This recognition further elevated the film’s status and brought it to a wider audience.

The movie serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of deception and the importance of honesty in business.

It reminds viewers to be cautious and aware when dealing with salesmen in any industry.

“Used Cars” showcases the power of entertainment as a medium to deliver social commentary.

The movie uses humor and satire to highlight the flaws and absurdities of the used car industry.

The film’s fast-paced and witty script keeps viewers engaged throughout.

The rapid-fire dialogue and comedic timing of the actors contribute to its overall entertainment value.

“Used Cars” remains relevant today, as the used car industry continues to be a topic of interest and discussion.

The film’s humorous take on the business serves as a timeless commentary on human nature and consumerism.

The movie’s success paved the way for Robert Zemeckis to direct other popular films, including the “Back to the Future” trilogy and “Forrest Gump.”

Zemeckis is now considered one of the most influential directors in Hollywood.

“Used Cars” has had a lasting impact on the comedy genre and remains a beloved film among cinephiles.

Its unique blend of humor, satire, and social commentary sets it apart from other comedies of its time.

The movie’s success led to a resurgence in interest in used car sales and inspired other films with similar themes.

It became a touchstone for future movies that aimed to explore the humor and quirks of the used car industry.

“Used Cars” has gained a strong cult following, with fans appreciating its timeless humor and satirical approach.

The film continues to be celebrated for its comedic brilliance and memorable characters.

“Used Cars” serves as a reminder that even in the world of second-hand vehicles, there are stories waiting to be told.

The movie’s success lies in its ability to entertain, provoke thought, and bring a lighthearted perspective to an industry often shrouded in skepticism.

Overall, “Used Cars” is a captivating and hilarious film that offers an entertaining glimpse into the world of used car salesmen. With its memorable characters, clever dialogue, and satirical take on the industry, the movie continues to be appreciated by audiences today. So, if you’re in the mood for a fun-filled comedy that will keep you laughing from start to finish, “Used Cars” is definitely worth a watch.

Conclusion

Used Cars is a classic comedy film that has stood the test of time. With its witty dialogue, hilarious performances, and engaging storyline, it continues to entertain audiences decades after its release.

The movie showcases the talent of director Robert Zemeckis and the brilliant acting abilities of Kurt Russell and the rest of the cast. It is a satirical take on the used car industry, providing a mix of humor, drama, and social commentary.

From its memorable quotes to its memorable characters, Used Cars has become iconic in the world of cinema. It serves as a reminder of the power of laughter and the joy of storytelling.

So, if you’re looking for a movie that will have you laughing from start to finish, give Used Cars a watch. You won’t be disappointed!

FAQs

Q: Who directed the movie Used Cars?

A: Used Cars was directed by Robert Zemeckis, known for his work on iconic films like Back to the Future and Forrest Gump.

Q: When was Used Cars released?

A: Used Cars was released on July 11, 1980.

Q: Who are the main actors in Used Cars?

A: The main actors in Used Cars include Kurt Russell, Jack Warden, and Gerrit Graham.

Q: Is Used Cars a comedy?

A: Yes, Used Cars is primarily a comedy film, known for its clever humor and comedic timing.

Q: What is the movie about?

A: Used Cars is a satirical take on the used car industry, following the story of a struggling car salesman and his efforts to save his dealership.

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