If you're a fan of the gritty, high-octane action of 'Towing' (1978), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same adrenaline-fueled thrills, intense car chases, and raw storytelling. Whether you're revisiting this cult classic or discovering it for the first time, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Duel (1971)
Description: A tense, high-speed thriller that pits an ordinary man against a relentless, unseen adversary in a battle of wits and survival on the open road.
Fact: Originally made as a TV movie, it was so well-received that it got a theatrical release in Europe. The film was Steven Spielberg's first full-length feature.


The Last American Hero (1973)
Description: A character-driven drama about a moonshine runner turned NASCAR driver, highlighting the thrill of speed and the struggle for redemption.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of Junior Johnson, a legendary NASCAR driver. It was praised for its authentic portrayal of Southern car culture.


Dirty Mary Crazy Larry (1974)
Description: A high-energy chase film about outlaws on the run, blending adrenaline-fueled action with dark humor and chaotic characters.
Fact: The film's famous crash scene was so intense that it was later used in documentaries about stunt driving. It was based on a novel inspired by real-life fugitives.


The Sugarland Express (1974)
Description: A chase film with emotional depth, following a desperate couple on the run, blending action with poignant social commentary.
Fact: This was Steven Spielberg's first theatrical feature film. The story was loosely based on a real-life incident involving a fugitive couple in Texas.


White Line Fever (1975)
Description: A gritty trucker drama that explores themes of corruption and rebellion, featuring high-stakes chases and a lone protagonist fighting against a corrupt system.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life trucker strikes and protests in the 1970s. It became a cult classic among trucking enthusiasts.


The Gumball Rally (1976)
Description: A high-speed, cross-country race filled with eccentric characters and wild vehicular antics, capturing the rebellious spirit of the open road.
Fact: The film was one of the first to popularize the illegal cross-country race genre, predating 'Cannonball Run' by five years. It was shot in a documentary-like style for added realism.


Breaker! Breaker! (1977)
Description: A high-octane action film centered around a trucker who takes on a corrupt small-town sheriff, blending car chases with vigilante justice.
Fact: This was one of the first films to capitalize on the CB radio craze of the 1970s. It was also Chuck Norris's first leading role in a feature film.


Thunder and Lightning (1977)
Description: A fast-paced action film set in the world of moonshine runners, featuring high-speed chases and a battle against organized crime.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Florida, using real moonshiners as consultants. It was one of the last films to exploit the 1970s car chase craze.


High-Ballin' (1978)
Description: A trucker-themed action-comedy that combines road battles with a lighthearted tone, focusing on camaraderie and rivalry among drivers.
Fact: The film features real-life truckers as extras, adding authenticity to its portrayal of the trucking lifestyle. It was one of the last films to ride the 1970s trucker movie wave.


Mad Max (1979)
Description: A dystopian action film centered around a lone warrior seeking vengeance, with relentless car chases and a bleak, lawless setting.
Fact: Made on a shoestring budget, it became a global phenomenon and spawned a franchise. The film's stunts were performed without CGI, using real cars and practical effects.
