Review of Used Cars (1980) by Michael L — 26 Mar 2009

This movie is completely out of control and I'm convinced that if Kurt Russel was not in this movie, it would have failed miserably. But as it stands, "Used Cars" is a tolerable comedy with that little bit extra because of its lead man. There's also a huge political agenda (as I've now come to expect from writer Bob Gale) dealing with the sleazly, untrustworthy politicians in Washington D.C; particularly, Jimmy Carter.

Our hero is Rudy Russo, a sleazy car salesman with his sights set on becoming a politician. (Gotta love metaphor.) However, as he strives for that glorious position in the white house, he comes to discover, through various comedic side-plots, that hard work and honesty is the right way to enter into politics. (Reagan idealism anyone?).

Despite the political undercurrent, there are quite a few laughs and I did enjoy the film overall. Don't expect any sidesplitting moments, but with Kurt Russell at the helm of this Robert Zemeckis comedy, don't be surprised to find yourself laughing at more than you probably expected.