Burt Reynolds was a prominent figure in Hollywood, particularly renowned for his box office success in the 1970s and early 1980s. His charismatic persona, often combined with action and comedy, resonated with audiences and made him a major draw.
Here’s a look at some of his most successful films:
- Smokey and the Bandit (1977): This action-comedy road film, directed by Hal Needham, became a cultural phenomenon. Reynolds starred as Bo “Bandit” Darville, a fast-talking, charming trucker who agrees to transport a load of Coors beer across state lines in 28 hours. The film’s high-speed car chases, humor, and the chemistry between Reynolds and Sally Field and Jerry Reed made it a massive hit, solidifying Reynolds’ status as a box office king.
- Semi-Tough (1977): A sports comedy-drama, Semi-Tough showcased Reynolds’ versatility. He plays Billy Clyde Puckett, a charismatic football player. The film’s blend of humor, sports, and social commentary was well-received, contributing to Reynolds’ continued box office success. Kris Kristofferson, Jill Clayburgh and Carl Weathers also starred in the adaptation of Dan Jenkins’ best selling novel.
- Hooper(1978): This action-comedy, directed by Needham, paid tribute to stuntmen. Reynolds starred as Sonny Hooper, an aging stuntman. The film’s celebration of stunt work, combined with Reynolds’ Everyman appeal and the exciting stunts, made it a hit. Sally Field, Jan-Micheal Vincent, Brian Keith and Robert Klein co-starred.
- The Cannonball Run(1981): Another action-comedy directed by Needham, The Cannonball Run featured an ensemble cast and a wild, cross-country car race. Reynolds played J.J. McClure, a participant in the race. The film’s light-hearted tone, slapstick humor, and numerous celebrity cameos contributed to its box office success. The all-star cast included Roger Moore, Farrah Fawcett, Dom DeLuise, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and Terry Bradshaw.
- Sharky’s Machine (1981): A departure from his more comedic roles, Sharky’s Machine is a neo-noir action thriller directed by Reynolds himself. He starred as Detective Sergeant Tom Sharky, involved in a dangerous investigation. The film demonstrated Reynolds’ range as an actor and director, and it performed reasonably well at the box office. Rachel Ward (Against All Odds), Charles Durning, Brian Keith and Bernie Casey also starred.
- The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas(1982): This musical comedy-drama, co-starring Dolly Parton, showcased Reynolds in a different genre. He played Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd. The film was a commercial success.
- Best Friends(1982): A romantic comedy film where Reynolds starred alongside Goldie Hawn and directed by Oscar winner Norman Jewison.
- Striptease (1996): While perhaps not as critically acclaimed as some of his earlier work, Striptease, starring Demi Moore, was a box office success for Reynolds in the mid-1990s.
- Boogie Nights (1997): This critically acclaimed drama, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, marked a career resurgence for Reynolds. He played Jack Horner, a veteran porn director. Reynolds received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his performance.
- The Longest Yard(2005): A remake of his 1974 hit, this sports comedy, starring Adam Sandler, featured Reynolds in a supporting role as Nate Scarboro. The film was a significant box office success.
- The Dukes of Hazzard(2005): Based on the popular television series, this action-comedy featured Reynolds as Boss Hogg. The film was a box office success and starred Seann William Scott, Johnny Knoxville, Jessica Simpson and Willie Nelson.
Legacy of Burt Reynolds at the Box Office
Reynolds’ career is marked by a string of successful films that entertained audiences and solidified his place as a Hollywood icon. His ability to blend action, comedy, and charm made him a bankable star for many years.
Burt Reynolds in Sharky’s Machine (Photo/Orion Pictures)
