8 Movies to make your kids car enthusiasts, today on Gearhead Parenting.
By Omar C.
Cinema has been a thing of wonder ever since its inception, and when you add cars into the mix, it only gets better. Recently we talked about getting your kids into cars, and we addressed the topic in a broad manner, with a quick overview of the whole process.
But now on Gearhead Parenting, we want to share a list of car movies that will awaken the gearhead spirit that is dormant in your kids and teens. Although, we must first answer an all-important question.
What makes a good gearhead movie?
Well, a good old car chase Dukes of Hazzard style is always a good sign, but the important moments to look for in a gearhead movie are those that emphasize our community’s core values, the brotherly bond between enthusiasts of all kinds, the proactive attitude towards a problem, and that no matter where they come from, or what they drive, a gearhead is a gearhead.
The passion we all share must be well represented in the movies, with deep and well thought out characters, rich story lines, or just plain old epic action sequences.
What kinds of films should we watch?
Starting from what would be ideal for a younger audience to movies that will turn any teenager into a tire smoking car enthusiast, we have compiled a list of films that range from comedy to action and other genres, with emphasis on the underlying car and driving themes that gearheads know and love.
Here are 7 movies for the gearhead family:
Cars (2006)
This is more than just a children’s movie, for many young enthusiasts, this is the film that got them into the gearhead life.
A great starting point for gearhead parenting of young children, Cars is a must watch before the age of 10.
Check out the IMDB page here, and watch the trailer below.
The Love Bug (1968)
A classic from a time when being a gearhead was a far more common trait, this movie has touched the heart of thousands, and shown us that our cars do have a soul.
This is another must for the whole family, regardless of age.
You can check the IMDB page here, and see the trailer below.
Taxi (1998)
The 1998 original comedy about an aspiring cab driver who ends up involved in a criminal investigation. With great acting, a myriad of European cars, superb chase scenes, and refreshing humor, this flick is sure to be a wild and hilarious ride for the whole family.
Check the IMDB page here, and watch the trailer below.
The Fast and the Furious (2001)
A pillar of modern car culture, this film has spawned numerous sequels, and massive fan following makes it an iconic flick, even among non gearheads.
ALSO DON’T MISS: Behind the scenes Fast and Furious footage
What else can be said, that hasn’t been said about this movie?
Aside from the now tacky underglow and over the top color schemes, the characters and stories woven in this legendary film will forever be entwined in the hearts of a generation, and is an experience every petrolhead must try.
You can check the IMDB page here. Watch the trailer below.
The Gumball Rally (1976)
Another comedy flick on this list, and a classic worthy of watching a thousand times, this film depicts a coast to coast race across America, with colorful and quirky characters racing for bragging rights and not much else. Gearhead Parenting suggests this movie for teens.
You can check out the IMDB page here,and the trailer below.
Le Mans (1971)
Heralded as one of the greatest documentaries in cinema, and nominated to a Golden Globe, this Steve McQueen masterpiece should be a wonderful experience for the gearhead family.
You can read the IMDB page here. Watch the trailer below.
The Italian Job (1969)
Arguably one of the greatest car movies ever made. I have a personal reason to add this to the list, as it was the movie that sparked my interest in cars, I told the story in an earlier edition of Gearheard Parenting. This heist film is well acted, superbly directed, and the car stunts and chases are both spectacular and realistic.
This is a must watch for any gearhead, and a great way to get your children into classic cars.
You can read the IMDB page here. Watch the trailer below.
BUllit (1968)
An all guts, no glory San Francisco cop becomes determined to find the underworld kingpin that killed the witness in his protection.