Smokey and the Bandit (1977) isn’t just a film—it’s a journey through the Southern United States, with thrilling car chases, comedic moments, and iconic locations.
Directed by Hal Needham, the film stars Burt Reynolds, Sally Field, and Jackie Gleason, weaving a story full of adrenaline and humor.
Let’s dive into the unforgettable filming locations, cast details, and a bit of trivia. Buckle up! 🚗💨
Plot Recap in a Nutshell
The story follows “The Bandit” (Burt Reynolds), who accepts an $80,000 bet to transport 400 cases of Coors beer from Texarkana to Atlanta—illegal at the time due to liquor laws.
Along the way, he meets Carrie (Sally Field), an escapee bride, leading to hilarious escapades and high-speed chases with lawmen, especially Sheriff Buford T. Justice (Jackie Gleason).
Smokey and the Bandit Locations: Where the Magic Happened 🌟
Georgia: The Heart of the Action 🍑
Many iconic scenes were filmed in small Georgia towns and highways, adding Southern charm to the movie.
| Location | Scene | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Lakewood Fairgrounds, Atlanta | The Bandit takes the job from Big Enos and Little Enos | Features a Spanish colonial-style building, now part of Screen Gems Studios. |
| McDonough Town Square | Car chases with police | The small brick building is gone, but the area retains its retro vibe. |
| Main Street, Jonesboro | Loading Coors beer | The depot from the movie still stands, adding nostalgia to the spot. |
| Highway 54, Jonesboro | Sheriff Branford’s encounter with the Bandit | Now modernized, but still worth a visit for fans. |
California: A Surprise Appearance 🌴
While most of the movie was shot in Georgia, some key scenes were filmed in Ventura and Ojai, California.
- Casitas Vista Road and Santa Ana Road: These roads set the stage for the movie’s climactic chase scene.
- Santa Monica Mountains: Added cinematic beauty to the film’s high-speed action sequences.
Behind-the-Scenes Trivia 🕶️
- Iconic Trans Am: The 1977 Pontiac Trans Am used in the movie became a pop culture icon, with sales skyrocketing after the film’s release.
- Real Stunts: Burt Reynolds credited Hal Needham, the director, for his incredible stuntwork that gave the film its authentic feel.
- Fun Fact: Despite being a commercial success, critics initially panned the film, but it became a cult classic over time.
Final Thoughts 🚦
Smokey and the Bandit isn’t just a movie; it’s a nostalgic ride through retro America. Whether you’re a film buff or just love a good road trip story, visiting these locations brings the spirit of the movie to life. So, grab your cowboy hat and hit the road to experience the charm of the 1977 classic!
Top FAQs About Smokey and the Bandit Filming Locations
Where was Smokey and the Bandit filmed?
The movie was filmed across Georgia and parts of California, including Jonesboro, Atlanta, and Ventura.
Is the Lakewood Fairgrounds still around?
Yes! It’s now part of the Screen Gems Studios in Atlanta.
Can I visit the McDonough Town Square?
Absolutely! The square remains mostly unchanged and is a must-visit for fans.
What car was used in the movie?
The 1977 Pontiac Trans Am became iconic thanks to the film.
Was Coors beer really illegal to transport?
Yes, in 1977, it was illegal to transport Coors beer east of Texas due to federal regulations.