Cannonball Run II Review

MPAA Rating: PG
Released: 1984

Cannonball Run II was a film that depicted the wacky antics of Cannonballers: speed demons that partake in a no holds barred, coast-to-coast race. Outrunning the cops as well as their rivals, these racers have their pedal to the metal and million dollar dreams floating through their heads.

Some may not realize that although Cannonball Run and its sequel were zany comedies, they are actually based on real life events. That, combined with a who's-who of older big name entertainers such as Frank Sinatra and Burt Reynolds, provides ample opportunity for major laughs. But does the film live up to its potential?

Cannonball Run II takes a page from Mad, Mad World, bringing together a remarkable ensemble of entertainers including Burt Reynolds, Dom DeLuise, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Telly Savalas, Frank Sinatra, Shirley MacLaine, Jackie Chan, Tony Danza, Jack Elam, Don Knotts and many more. No doubt, one thing this film doesn't lack is star power.

Unfortunately all the star power in the world isn't enough to make Cannonball Run II a comedy classic. In fact it's little more than a cheesefest. But then again, when viewing this film you get the sense no one involved really meant for it to be much more. It's clear that everyone in this film is having a great time, and this enjoyment is infectious for despite the fact that many jokes fall flat it's actually pretty easy to enjoy yourself while watching this flick.

The humor relies a lot on slapstick and sight gags, rather than word play or subtle comedy. You won't find intelligent verbal sarcasm or highbrow humor, but you will find a chimpanzee and a little old lady exchanging vulgar hand gestures while cruising the streets (yes, it's as silly as it sounds… but it does bring forth a grin while watching it), redneck cops who are all to happy to chase down these speedsters and a bumbling mob family out to kidnap the organizer of the event.

In fact it's not so much the lines or situations themselves that makes for an entertaining and frequently funny romp – it's the chemistry of these all-stars working together. Few times will you see so many legendary actors banding together to create an irreverent comedy such as this, and watching the likes of entertainment's legends such as Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. indulging gleefully in this cinematic horseplay is a hoot.

As a side note, the DVD edition I watched for this review contained noticeable artifacts and grain during certain scenes (particularly the opener). Although this isn't uncommon for older films, it was distracting at first. Luckily the artifacts toned themselves down when the movie actually started – it's the landscape and sky scenes where they become significantly noticeable. I normally do not review DVD quality in movie reviews since many editions are released for some films, and the focus here is on 80's movies rather than 2000's technology… but nonetheless I wanted to toss out that quick caution.

Those who enjoyed films like Smokey and the Bandit and the original Cannonball Run will surely enjoy this sequel, for it offers more of the same humor, stunts and outrageous driving. If you haven't seen the aforementioned films, then don't walk into Cannonball Run II expecting a comedy classic. You won't bust a gut laughing, but if you accept this fun film for what it is then chances are high that you'll have a good time.

Movie rating: 7 stars

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