Explore the Top 10 Truck Movies
Big rigs, tractor trailers, and semis have long captured the imagination of many, often being dubbed the kings of the road. Today’s Kenworths, Peterbilts, Volvos, Freightliners, and more define the Class 8 truck category, which boasts a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) exceeding 33,000 pounds. These powerful diesel vehicles come with a lifestyle that is both intriguing and challenging.
The Life of Truckers
Truckers have a unique commitment to diesel engines, often extending beyond their primary jobs to personal vehicles, including pickup trucks and SUVs. This dedication reflects a culture deeply intertwined with the trucking profession.
Long-haul trucking presents its own set of challenges and adventures. These drivers traverse the extensive U.S. landscape, moving goods that support our daily lives. The life of a trucker can sometimes be likened to a nomadic existence, filled with freedom yet balanced by the demands of the road.
Entertaining the Trucker Lifestyle
Throughout cinema history, trailers and their drivers have been prominently featured as characters in various films and television programs, gaining popularity since the 1940s. In today’s world, where people seek entertainment to break up their routines, our curated list of the top 10 truck movies offers an engaging glimpse into trucker life, even if they aren’t Oscar-winning productions.
Top 10 Truck Movies
- They Drive by Night (1940) – Trucks: 1928 Sterling EB 18, 1934 GMC T-Series, 1937 GMC F-Series.
- Duel (1971) – Truck: 1955 Peterbilt 281; Engine/Transmission: 1674 CAT/10-Speed.
- In Tandem/Movin’ On (1973/1974) – Trucks: 1973 Kenworth W923, 1974 Kenworth W925; Engine/Transmission: VT903 Cummins/13-Speed.
- Hijack (1974) – Truck: 1974 White Freightliner WFT-7564.
- White Line Fever (1975) – Truck: 1974 Ford WT9000; Name/Handle: Blue Mule; Engine/Transmission: NTC 400 Cummins/10-speed.
- Smokey and the Bandit (1977) – Truck: 1974 Kenworth W900A; Name/Handle: Snowman; Engine/Transmission: 3406 CAT/13-speed.
- High Ballin’ (1978) – Truck: 1973 Kenworth K123; Name/Handle: Iron Duke.
- Convoy (1978) – Truck: 1977 Mack RS-712LST; Name/Handle: Rubber Duck; Engine/Transmission: Mack “Tip Turbine” Turbocharged I-6/10-Speed.
- Big Rig (2007/Documentary) – Truck(s): All sorts of really cool rigs.
- Snitch (2013) – Truck: 2009 Freightliner Coronado; Engine/Transmission: Detroit Diesel DD15/13-Speed.
If you’re interested in the world of trucking and looking for films that truly capture the essence of this vibrant lifestyle, these movies are worth the watch.