20 Greatest Burt Reynolds Films, Ranked from Worst to Best

Burt Reynolds became a beloved movie star by combining his natural charisma with tough-guy roles and creating characters audiences never forgot. He successfully acted in everything from action-packed car chases to suspenseful thrillers and even serious dramas later in his career, resulting in a film collection that continues to attract viewers today. This list highlights twenty of his best films and the people who helped make him great.

This book dives into the making of Burt Reynolds’ films, covering everything from gritty prison scenes to wild car chases and even unexpected turns in his career. Each entry gives you a quick rundown of the plot, plus key details about the director, co-stars, and how well the movie was received when it first came out. It’s all about the facts – everything you need to decide what to watch next.

‘City Heat’ (1984)

This funny crime movie takes place in Kansas City during the Prohibition era. It stars Burt Reynolds as a private investigator named Mike Murphy and Clint Eastwood as Speer, a strict police lieutenant. They reluctantly team up to investigate a missing financial record, navigating dangerous rival gangs and a lot of mob money. Expect snappy dialogue between the two leads, along with classic action like car chases and shootouts, all set against the backdrop of stylish suits and secret speakeasies.

Directed by Richard Benjamin, based on a story by Blake Edwards, the movie is remembered for bringing together two big stars and featuring classic cars and scenery. Despite a minor injury during filming, Burt Reynolds finished his performance. The film initially did well thanks to its famous leads, and it continues to be a unique watch for fans eager to see Burt Reynolds and Clint Eastwood together on screen.

‘Stick’ (1985)

I recently checked out a movie based on an Elmore Leonard novel, and it really grabbed me. It’s about a guy named Ernest Stick Stickley who just gets out of prison and is immediately thrown back into the criminal underworld of South Florida when a friend of his is murdered. The story quickly spirals into a world of drug money and a seriously dangerous crime boss. Stick gets caught up in a really risky scheme, and he’s constantly having to outsmart both the police and other criminals just to survive. It’s a total thrill ride!

Reynolds both directed and acted in the film, alongside Candice Bergen and George Segal. It’s known for being filmed on location in Miami and features a vibrant, neon-infused style that perfectly embodies 1980s Florida. Interestingly, studio notes reveal that some of the story’s darker elements were toned down during editing, making this film a good example for comparing the book and movie versions.

‘Gator’ (1976)

This follow-up to ‘White Lightning’ sees Gator McKlusky, a former bootlegger, emerge from hiding to assist federal agents in taking down a crooked politician in Georgia. The story unfolds in rural areas and small towns, exploring Gator’s struggle to balance his history as a criminal with a desire to make amends.

This film marks Burt Reynolds’ first time directing a feature-length movie, and he also reprises the character that cemented his image as a charismatic Southern rogue. Jerry Reed delivers a standout performance as the villain, Bama McCall, and also contributes to the film’s music. With its authentic locations and real car stunts, the movie captures the spirit of classic seventies action films.

‘Hustle’ (1975)

A detective in Los Angeles, portrayed by Reynolds, is investigating the mysterious death of a young woman. His investigation quickly leads him into the world of organized crime and puts him face-to-face with a distraught father demanding the truth. As the case becomes increasingly complex, he faces pressure from his bosses and struggles to keep his personal feelings from interfering with the investigation.

Robert Aldrich’s film features strong performances from Catherine Deneuve and Ben Johnson, and creates a somber, crime-focused mood that was popular at the time. Filmed on location throughout Los Angeles, the movie benefits from realistic scenery and a fitting score by Frank De Vol. It offers a more serious, dramatic role for Burt Reynolds, showcasing a different side of his talent.

‘100 Rifles’ (1969)

This action-packed western takes place in Mexico in the early 1900s. It follows a lawman (Jim Brown), a rebel (Burt Reynolds), and a bank robber (Raquel Welch) who are forced to work together. They team up to steal weapons and start a revolution, all while facing off against a cruel and powerful general.

Filmed in Spain and standing in for Mexico, the movie included impressive train and cavalry scenes. Burt Reynolds’s character, Yaqui Joe, is memorable for his combination of humor and rebellious spirit. With its exciting action and political themes, the film is representative of the ambitious international Westerns produced during that era.

‘The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas’ (1982)

I absolutely love this movie! It’s a really fun musical comedy about a famous, family-run brothel called the Chicken Ranch, and it’s just hilarious watching the local sheriff, played by Burt Reynolds, try to protect it when a really preachy TV guy comes to town and starts causing problems. It’s a sweet story that mixes up romance, the way things have always been done in this small town, and what people think is right or wrong, all while the state government is trying to shut everything down. It’s a classic!

Based on the popular Broadway show, the movie includes many of the original stage songs while also adding impressive visuals through on-location shooting and larger-scale scenes. Dolly Parton’s memorable songs are featured throughout, and the strong connection between Parton and Burt Reynolds drives the story. The film captures the feel of early 1980s movie musicals, with colorful outfits and energetic performances.

‘Semi-Tough’ (1977)

This funny movie is about two football players, played by Ryan Reynolds and Kris Kristofferson, who are rivals on the field. They also have to deal with a lot of attention from the media and a popular self-help trend that everyone around them is trying. Things get even more complicated when one of the team owner’s daughters, played by Jill Clayburgh, enters the picture and disrupts their plans.

Director Michael Ritchie makes the film feel realistic by shooting at actual stadiums and using real players, giving viewers an inside look at training, game preparation, and locker room life. Beyond the game, the movie playfully criticizes the popular psychology trends and celebrity obsession that were common in sports during the late 1970s. If you enjoy Burt Reynolds’s sports comedies, this film perfectly captures the spirit of that time.

‘Navajo Joe’ (1966)

This action-packed story follows Reynolds as a Native American tracker seeking revenge on the group that wiped out his village. He uses quick thinking and skillful ambushes – including disrupting trains – to outsmart his enemies, culminating in a final confrontation in a rugged frontier town, even when outnumbered.

Filmed in Spain with a score by the legendary Ennio Morricone, this movie is part of a trend of European westerns known for their dramatic style, action, and music. Burt Reynolds later talked about how difficult the filming process was, which explains why the movie is fast-paced and features so many real stunts. It’s a fascinating look at his career before he became a major star.

‘The End’ (1978)

When Sonny Lawson learns he’s ill, he tries to take charge of his life, but his attempts repeatedly backfire in hilariously messy ways. He unexpectedly teams up with a fellow patient, played by Dom DeLuise, and together they navigate a world that’s quickly falling apart.

Reynolds both directed and acted in the film, working again with people he’d collaborated with before. He skillfully mixed serious themes with large-scale, comedic scenes. Filmed on location in Los Angeles and using hospital sets, the movie maintains a fast pace and allowed the actors to contribute their own ideas. Ultimately, it’s a good example of how comedies from the 1970s often addressed difficult subjects using humor.

‘The Cannonball Run’ (1981)

This funny movie is about a group of quirky drivers competing in a secret, coast-to-coast race. Reynolds captains a team that cleverly disguises an ambulance to stay ahead of the police, while their competitors do whatever it takes to win.

Okay, so this movie is seriously packed with stars – Dom DeLuise, Farrah Fawcett, Roger Moore, and a young Jackie Chan, believe it or not! It’s got a ton of real car stunts, which were a blast, and they even included bloopers during the end credits – that became a trademark thing for this director. Honestly, it was a huge hit all over the world and really cemented Burt Reynolds as *the* guy for fun, action-packed car movies. It’s a classic for a reason!

‘Hooper’ (1978)

Ryan Reynolds stars as Sonny Hooper, a seasoned stuntman grappling with the physical toll of his career as he prepares for a particularly dangerous final stunt in a major action film. The movie explores the close bonds and rivalries among stunt performers, as well as the pressure from filmmakers to constantly outdo themselves and deliver even more spectacular action.

Directed by Hal Needham, a famous stunt expert, the movie gives viewers a look at how stunts are really done, including the use of air cannons, cables, and high falls. The impressive bridge jump and rocket car scenes were performed by real stunt professionals, without relying on computer-generated effects. It’s a tribute to the stunt work that played a big part in making Burt Reynolds a star.

‘Sharky’s Machine’ (1981)

Okay, so I just watched this amazing movie about a tough Atlanta cop named Tom Sharky. He messes up and gets moved to a less important job, but then he accidentally uncovers this huge conspiracy! It involves a powerful crime boss and a really expensive escort. The way they investigate is so cool – they set up a surveillance team in an apartment across the street and just *watch* everything unfold. And things get intense – the case quickly spirals into a lot of violence. It’s a really gripping story!

Reynolds both directed and acted in the film, shooting on location in Atlanta to create a gritty cop thriller that showcased the city’s unique buildings and streets. It’s particularly known for a dangerous practical stunt involving a fall inside the Hyatt Regency and its atmospheric jazz-inspired music. The film demonstrates Reynolds’ careful approach to directing alongside a realistic performance as the main character.

‘Breaking In’ (1989)

This funny crime show stars Reynolds as Ernie, an experienced safecracker, and a young newcomer hoping to become a thief. Each small heist they pull teaches them about the tricks of the trade and the difficulties of living a life of crime.

The film, written by John Sayles and directed by Bill Forsyth, focuses more on developing its characters than on elaborate robberies. Filmed on location in and around Portland, it uses real places like diners and homes to emphasize the story’s down-to-earth nature. For fans of Burt Reynolds’s work from the late 1980s, this movie shows his willingness to take on quirky roles in between bigger studio films.

‘White Lightning’ (1973)

Gator McKlusky begins his story in prison, where he makes a deal to work undercover and investigate a dishonest county sheriff who may be connected to his brother’s murder. The story follows Gator as he chases leads along rivers, back country roads, and through remote locations, all in an effort to reveal the sheriff’s criminal connections.

Filmed in Arkansas and Mississippi, the movie captures a gritty, swampy atmosphere. Instead of relying on special effects, the car chases showcase real driving skills. The film also introduced the popular character, Gator, who appeared in another movie later on. This project was crucial in establishing Burt Reynolds as a leading action star known for his Southern charm and believable performances.

‘Starting Over’ (1979)

I was really drawn into this movie about a guy starting over after a divorce. He moves to Boston and is trying to figure things out, and it’s so relatable watching him try to build a new life and even find love again, all while dealing with the baggage from his past. Ryan Reynolds is perfect as Phil Potter – he plays him with a quiet sensitivity that really works for the movie’s down-to-earth humor and the very personal story it tells.

Directed by Alan J. Pakula and written by James L. Brooks, this film stars Jill Clayburgh and Candice Bergen, both of whom received critical acclaim for their performances. Filmed on location in Boston and New York, the movie has a realistic quality. It showcases how Burt Reynolds became a staple in popular comedies of the time, focusing on themes of love and changing careers.

‘Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex *But Were Afraid to Ask’ (1972)

This funny movie is based on David Reuben’s book and features a collection of short, comedic scenes. Each scene has a different story and includes surprise appearances from well-known actors. Ryan Reynolds stars in a sketch where a TV host interviews a priest and a rabbi, and many of the scenes combine clever jokes with silly situations.

Woody Allen’s film is a fast-paced comedy that jumps between different worlds – from medieval adventures and wacky science experiments to parodies of game shows. Filmed in both Los Angeles and Italy, it features elaborate costumes and special effects. It’s a great example of the kind of sketch-based comedy that was popular in the early 1970s.

‘Smokey and the Bandit’ (1977)

I absolutely love this movie! It stars Burt Reynolds as Bo ‘Bandit’ Darville, a super-slick driver who gets paid to smuggle beer across state lines. Of course, he’s being relentlessly pursued by Sheriff Buford T. Justice, and the whole thing starts with a simple bet. But it quickly escalates into this incredible, high-speed chase all over the Southeast, and it gets even wilder when a woman running from her wedding joins the fun!

Hal Needham directed the film, relying on professional stunt performers for all the exciting action like jumps, spins, and coordinated driving sequences. Jerry Reed not only co-stars but also contributed music that quickly became popular on the radio, and Sally Field brings a lively energy as a surprising addition to the story. Despite its modest budget, the movie was a huge success at the box office and famously made the Pontiac Trans Am a cultural icon of the late 1970s.

‘The Longest Yard’ (1974)

Ex-football star Paul Crewe ends up in prison, where the warden forces him to create a team of inmates to compete against the prison guards. The movie follows their training, the team dynamics, and culminates in a funny but tough football game.

Director Robert Aldrich filmed on location at Georgia State Prison to create a realistic setting, and used professional athletes and stunt people for the exciting football game scenes. Burt Reynolds’s own experience playing football helped shape the film’s tough, physical style and how the plays were filmed. The movie was critically acclaimed and went on to inspire many other successful underdog sports stories.

‘Deliverance’ (1972)

A weekend canoe trip for four friends in rural Georgia turns dangerous, pushing their survival skills and bond to the limit. Actor Reynolds stars as Lewis Medlock, a confident outdoorsman who quickly learns a seemingly peaceful river can become treacherous.

John Boorman filmed ‘Deliverance’ on location along the Chattooga River, relying on practical effects and minimal use of stunt doubles to create a sense of real danger. The film’s iconic banjo music, thrilling river sequences, and the characters’ difficult survival decisions all resonated with audiences and became part of popular culture. It earned several award nominations and helped Burt Reynolds gain recognition as a serious actor.

‘Boogie Nights’ (1997)

This story takes place in the San Fernando Valley in the late 1970s and early 1980s, and follows a young actor’s journey through the adult film industry. Burt Reynolds plays Jack Horner, a director struggling to stay artistically relevant as the business evolves. The film explores the world through a series of parties, close relationships, and the impact of new technology on how things are made.

Paul Thomas Anderson’s direction featured sweeping camera movements, carefully chosen music, and overlapping conversations, all of which created dynamic and layered scenes. The actor received significant awards attention for his performance, and the film itself was nominated for several Oscars. It remains a defining moment in his career, bringing his work to a wider audience.

Let us know your favorite Burt Reynolds films in the comments, and tell us which one you think is worth watching again!

2025-10-14 21:20