Vanishing Point
Vanishing Point

Vanishing Point

1971Movie99 minEnglish

Kowalski works for a car delivery service, and takes delivery of a 1970 Dodge Challenger to drive from Colorado to San Francisco. Shortly after pickup, he takes a bet to get the car there in less than 15 hours.

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IMDb7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes71%
Google Users86%
Director: Richard C. SarafianGenres: Action, Crime, Drama

Plot Summary

A disillusioned former police detective and Vietnam vet, Kowalski, takes on a seemingly simple job: delivering a 1970 Dodge Challenger from Denver to San Francisco in just 15 hours. As he speeds across the desert Southwest, he finds himself pursued by an ever-increasing number of police cars and helicopters. Throughout his journey, he becomes a folk hero and a symbol of rebellion for a growing radio audience, amplified by the radical commentary of a blind DJ named Super Soul.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'Vanishing Point' garnered mixed reviews from critics but achieved significant cult status among audiences for its stylish direction, exhilarating car chases, and counter-culture themes. While some critics found its plot thin and its violence excessive, others praised its innovative cinematography and its resonant portrayal of anti-establishment sentiment.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its thrilling car chases and stylish direction.
  • Seen as a potent symbol of 1970s counter-culture and rebellion.
  • Some found the plot simplistic and gratuitous violence a drawback.

Google audience: Audiences generally laud 'Vanishing Point' for its relentless action, iconic car sequences, and its enduring status as a cult classic that captures a specific era's rebellious spirit. Many appreciate the film's anti-authoritarian undertones and the performance of Barry Newman.

Fun Fact

The film's distinctive white 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T was actually painted several different colors throughout production to appear as if it were being modified, though it was always the same car.

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TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
Dr_Nostromo

Dr_Nostromo

93/100 Attracting the cops to his speeding, a car delivery specialist is pursued by law enforcement through 3 states while driving a souped-up 1970 Dodge Challenger. Arguably the best chase film ever made and not just because of the chas...
John Chard

John Chard

The last American hero to whom speed means freedom of the soul. Vanishing Point is directed by Richard Sarafian and written by Guillermo Cain. It stars Barry Newman, Cleavon Little and Dean. Jagger. Car delivery driver Kowalski (Newma...