European Cars in Film: Porsche

For many gear-heads, a Porsche is the ultimate sports car. Sleek, speedy, and incredibly resilient, it has everything a seasoned auto lover could ask for. Fully aware of this fact, Hollywood has produced a number of films in which Porsches are prominently featured. If you’re looking for an entertaining movie that does justice to your favorite vehicle, make sure to check out the following classics.   

“Gone in 60 Seconds” (1974)

If you’re in the mood for a world-class heist movie, fire up H.B. Halicki’s 1974 classic “Gone in 60 Seconds.” The film tells the story of a seemingly straight-laced insurance investigator who leads a double life as a chop shop proprietor. When he’s approached by a ruthless drug lord to steal dozens of specially-requested vehicles, he cautiously accepts the job, setting the stage for a number of masterfully-choreographed car chases. Not surprisingly, one of the cars our “hero” is tasked with stealing is a picturesque Porsche, which he rides in what is arguably the movie’s best chase sequence.

“Annie Hall” (1977)

If well-written romantic comedies are your bag, give “Annie Hall” a watch. One of co-writer/director Woody Allen’s earliest successes, the movie chronicles the heartfelt — but ultimately failed — relationship between a neurotic comedian and his free-spirited, overly-needy muse. Though by no means heavy on action, one of the film’s most touching sequences takes place during a ride in a Porsche 911. Watching this scene is liable to make viewers track down a Porsche 911 for sale.

“Risky Business” (1983)

Widely regarded as the film that launched Tom Cruise’s career, “Risky Business” revolves around a well-to-do, chronically overburdened teen cutting loose when his uptight parents take a trip and leave their home in his care. Early in the second act, Cruise’s character outruns a violent bully in his father’s Porsche 928. (Unfortunately, said vehicle is destroyed shortly thereafter.)

The entertainment industry caters to many different demographics, and car lovers are no exception. No matter what type of vehicle you’re interested in, chances are you can find a film that makes good use of it. Fortunately, if you’re a Porsche enthusiast, you won’t have to look very hard.