Review of Vanishing Point (1971) by Brad W — 19 Jun 2009

Since its release nearly 40 years ago, this film has achieved cult status and reverential appeal amongst petrol heads and people of a certain age. Apparently 82% of Flixster users like this film. Lord knows why!

In what amounts to a long and boring road trip from Denver to San Francisco, Barry Newman plays 'Kowalski', a Vietnam veteran and ex-cop who seeks to exorcise his demons by undertaking his journey pursued by seemingly every traffic cop in North America. The term 'Vanishing Point' must refer to the script, as there is very little dialogue and Newman is largely asked to affect a look of constipation whilst sat for long periods behind the dashboard of his Dodge Challenger. When he does actually speak, Newman delivers the goods and demonstrates the talent that was most famously employed as TV's Petrocelli. I wonder if he ever finished that house?

Cleavon Little provides sterling support as 'Super Soul' a blind DJ who guides Kowalski via the airwaves. Apart from Newman and Little, the standard of acting throughout the film is porn-grade with Charlotte Rampling in particular delivering some of the most 'Keanuesque' acting I've I had the misfortune to witness in some time.

Towards the end of the film, a solitary highpoint is Kowalski's encounter with a beautiful blonde who spends all her onscreen time naked whilst riding a motorcycle and inviting Newman "to have some fun". I have added an extra star to my rating for this fabulous performance...

If you want to watch a film featuring a character called Kowalski who drives a classic muscle car, then watch the recent Clint Eastwood drama Gran Torino. An immeasurably better film, even if it doesn't feature nude motorcycle chicks!