Good story, Not enough for a whole film

At first rather annoying in its heavy emphasis on reenactments, this movie ultimately proves fascinating, simply because the complicated, highly dramatic tale it tells still almost defies belief.

Great movie. Not sure what people expected but I found it highly entertaining.

By the time the dramatic fireworks start popping off, each one feels earned.

I started watching these older movies and must say I enjoy them more than today's CGI-heavy movies. I love the practical effects and films being shot on location. It more effectively creates a sense of realism. The actors are also more believable because they are actually part of their surroundings, and not being made belief to be there. Before Spielberg scared us with a shark, he brought us this thrilling road movie. The film never gives us a reason for the truck driver to pursue our hero, nor does it ever reveal the driver. But this was a very exciting film and to this day one of the better road movies out there. Dennis Weaver was so good that you could actually feel his agony and desperation.

Possible only through the magic of camera angles, close ups, direction of view, etc. Very good example of being able to make the impossible seem possible through the camera lens.

Originally produced for television, Spielberg's debut feature-length film has stood the test of time. Acquiring the ability to retain the thrilling suspense that was masterfully created back in 1971. A businessman travelling cross-country encounters an oil tanker that soon starts to recklessly infuriate him, turning an innocent drive into a cat-and-mouse pursuit. A simple premise that purposefully lacks backstory to enhance the emergent situation that is being illustrated. Just a feeble car fleeing a monstrous truck. Spielberg excellently ensures that the domineering presence of the beastly tanker is the prominent showpiece, conveying intimidation through its aesthetic appearance and booming engine. His directing technique, which includes POV car shots and wide panning shifts between the two vehicles, is the stand out. It's a prevalent element to the film which heightens its perennial status, even when watching this for the first time today it feels fresh as if watching a modern film. Astonishing really, but proving that solid direction is required to create a classic. Weaver's mild mannered behaviour juxtaposes the ruthless savagery of the anonymous truck driver, thus conjuring up the thrills that is surprisingly maintained well. There are a few moments where the fuel warning light comes on, particularly when the car tries to overtake the truck, due to repetitious scenes. Also can't shake the feeling that he could've simply drove in the opposite direction, easy solution really although not half as exhilarating. However the nitrous fuel is then refilled and the narrative speedily drives away without looking back. The final scene was tremendously filmed, especially the slow motion carnage, and proves that Spielberg works well with tiny budgets also. In fact, this is just as good as his big blockbusters which is an impressive achievement. So sit back, strap yourself in and push the pedal to the metal in this thrilling car chase.

This surely has to be classed as a classic. Kept me on the edge of my seat. Would love to see it again. No spoilers, watch and judge for yourself. Brilliant, you'll be sorry if yo miss this one. Yes, it's old, but really worth watching.Don't want to give any opinion other than the one mentioned.