Comparing Car Destruction in Movies: Smokey and the Bandit vs. The Blues Brothers

A Thrilling Thrashing of Automobiles

In the cinematic world, where spectacular stunts and jaw-dropping action sequences reign supreme, the debate over which movie destroyed more cars has sparked heated discussions among movie enthusiasts. However, there is another fascinating comparison that has gained traction: the number of shopping malls destroyed. While the record for the most cars destroyed is in the hands of the 2012 blockbuster Transformers: Dark of the Moon, with 532 vehicles taken apart, let’s delve into the movies with the highest toll of cars and shopping malls as part of their stunts: Smokey and the Bandit and The Blues Brothers.

Car Destruction Records

While The Blues Brothers 2000 holds the record for the most cars destroyed at 105, the recent blockbuster Transformers: Dark of the Moon has eclipsed this number with a staggering 532 cars.

Yet, if we're looking at the most shopping malls destroyed, another aspect of cinematic destruction, a title that has not been assigned by the record books emerges:

Property Damage: Smokey and the Bandit vs. The Blues Brothers

During the filming of Smokey and the Bandit and The Blues Brothers, both vehicles and properties were in the line of fire. However, it seems that The Blues Brothers took the trophy for the most extensive property damage, including numerous shopping malls. The Illinois Film Commission and the cities of Chicago and Harvey offered a unique permission: to demolish property as part of the film's stunts. This level of approval could be a testament to the unique and impressive visuals that these movies provided.

A Great Film Debated by Time

Both movies are widely regarded as great films, but voting for one over the other is simply a matter of taste. The Blues Brothers holds the distinction of destroying more property. Nonetheless, their standing in the hearts of cinephiles remains high. The fact that Animal House won Oscars while these two classics didn't might indicate a disconnect between the Academy and the popular vote, reflecting the sometimes biased and out-of-touch nature of the Academy Awards.

In conclusion, while Smokey and the Bandit and The Blues Brothers might not hold the top spot for car destruction records, they are undoubtedly memorable for the scale and creativity of their stunts. Whether it's the speed and thrills of the Bandit or the comedic chaos and property damage of The Blues Brothers, both movies stand as remarkable feats in the realm of cinematic action sequences.