Scene of the Week: Smokey and the Bandit

One of 2018’s dubious distinctions is it is the year that the world lost Burt Reynolds.

Burt Reynolds had a long and illustrious career in Hollywood that spanned several decades with appearances on both the big and small screens. But there was no time that Reynolds star was shining brighter than in the 1970’s. Reynolds became a pop culture icon. In 1977, Reynolds took his popularity to a whole new level when he portrayed Bandit in Smokey and the Bandit.

Audiences fell in love with the Bandit character thanks to the undeniable charm and charisma of the man portraying him. The Bandit and his Trans Am oozed cool as he and his running buddy Cledus (Jerry Reed) found themselves taking a big money dare to transport a truckload of beer out of Texas, all while Sheriff Buford T. Justice (played by the legendary Jackie Gleason) was in hot pursuit. Throw in the likable Sally Field as the Bandit’s love interest and it is no wonder Smokey and the Bandit was one of the top grossing movies of 1977.

This week’s Scene of the Week takes a look at some of the vehicular mayhem that can be found in Smokey and the Bandit, complete with a spectacular jump…