15 Best Trucker Movies

We dream of traversing unknown cities and engaging with different languages, but it’s not that easy. Although, there is a great way to absorb that traveling spirit without taking the risk of actually going; just watch the adventures of the characters on screen.

Good quality road trip movies can make you feel part of the journey and have a real connection to them, without having to purchase additional fuel, a slum in unhygienic motels, or risk heated arguments with the locals. Such is the appeal of this kind of movie, that the genre often has sufficient entertainment and escapism right up until the plot becomes repetitive and tiring. 

Also Read: Why There’s a Truck Driver Shortage and How to Solve It

So which road trip movies are really worth our devotion and time?

Here are 15 of the best trucker movies.

1. Easy Rider (1969)

Immediately becoming a classic thanks to the iconic images of Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper cruising on their motorcycles to the tune of Steppenwolf’s “Born to Be Wild,” their long journey through the rugged terrain of America is an unconventional yet captivating and enlightening look at the U.S. Provocative and educational: the perfect way to explore and appreciate the beauty of the land.

2. Almost Famous (2000)

Cameron Crowe has crafted an incredibly touching and heartfelt exploration of the life of a teenage music reporter during the 1970s, allowing us to observe and follow Patrick Fugit as he ventures around America on a raucous tour with the rock band Stillwater. Laced with nostalgia for a time when rock ‘n’ roll echoed through the country, this near-biographical account is a passionate and magical ode to the unbridled energy of youth. It is both a marvelously entertaining and absorbing road movie and an enduring testament to the contagious power of music.

3. Y Tu Mama Tambien (2002)

Alfonso Cuarón’s brilliant cinematic achievement provided an introduction to Diego Luna and Gael Garcia Bernal and was skillfully crafted to successfully merge comedy, drama, and sex together to create an emotionally powerful and intellectually stimulating movie, which vividly captures the experience of coming of age in Mexico.

4. Dumb and Dumber(1994)

I can confidently say that this movie is undoubtedly the most foolish movie on this list. Lloyd and Harry embark on an enjoyable and comedic journey from Providence to Aspen to regain the possession of their briefcase. Nevertheless, in my opinion, this is likely the most entertaining motion picture featured here.

5. It Happened One Night (1934)

Viewers have applauded “One Night” for its artful combination of comedy and romance. This timeless classic stands out from the modern, frenetic style popularized by the likes of Jim Carrey, providing a much more soulful take on the genre. With its charming story of an unlikely couple, the journey of a disreputable writer and an entitled socialite from Florida to the Big Apple, and its beautiful portrayal of the origins of love, this movie has rightfully been hailed as one of the greatest movies of all time.

6. Logan (2017)

Hugh Jackman’s heartfelt and emotional goodbye to Wolverine will always be one of the most impactful moments ever depicted in a comic book movie. As he journeys to North Dakota alongside his beloved adoptive daughter X-23 and the ailing Professor Charles Xavier, the audience is taken on a mesmerizing cinematic adventure, full of danger and excitement, in which the stakes could not be higher. The experience was undoubtedly as unforgettable for the viewers as it was for these beloved characters.

7. Planes, Trains, & Automobiles (1987)

This exquisitely simple comedy is pure magic thanks to the brilliant work of screenwriter and director John Hughes. He crafted a beautiful story as we witness John Candy and Steve Martin’s comical journey of attempting to reach Chicago from New York, complete with humorous roadblocks along the way, culminating in a delightful, heartwarming finale. What truly makes the movie iconic however, is the unparalleled rapport between Candy and Martin that captivates us from beginning to end.

8. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

Sadly, it is not possible for fans of the movie to embark on a rapid journey from the stronghold of Immortal Joe to the notorious “Green Place,” with a chance to linger in Valhalla for a while. Yet, if such a voyage were indeed achievable, there is no doubt in my mind that hordes of truly dedicated Mad Max enthusiasts would weather the most devastating sandstorm in order to display their deep-seated admiration for what is arguably one of the most remarkable action movies of all time.

9. Inside Llewyn Davis (2013)

It was a deeply emotive, yet amusing and insightful journey through the life of a folk musician residing in Greenwich Village in the early 1960s that ultimately propelled Oscar Isaac to fame. Anticipation rose as he voyaged from New York to Chicago and back, determined to showcase his remarkable talent.

10. Sullivan’s Travels (1941)

Joel McCree, a prosperous and ultra-successful director, gave up his privilege and material comforts to get the chance to watch Preston Sturges’ outstanding and hilarious picture, which delves thoughtfully into the influential nature of cinema. Regarded as one of the most underappreciated works in Hollywood’s Golden Age, this film is definitely deserving of more recognition.

11. Thelma and Louise (1991)

This movie only gets better every year, like a good whiskey. No doubt we can see here one of the most iconic finales in cinematic history, but the duo’s trip to Mexico, full of sincerity, laughter, is also noteworthy. This may be Ridley Scott’s finest film yet.

12. Midnight Run (1988)

This timeless buddy comedy reveals the intriguing tale of Robert De Niro’s bounty hunter as he escorts Charles Grodin, a former Mafia accountant, from New York all the way to Los Angeles. Its charm mainly derives from the electrifying chemistry of the leading duo, but also due to its stirring storytelling style, which combines humor and drama in a way that is a bit melancholic.

13. The Muppet Movie (1979)

As Kermit the Frog boldly set off on his cross-country voyage from his home state of Florida to the sunny skies of California, his ambition to launch a movie career had captivated people of all ages. On his way, he made a series of remarkable new acquaintances, such as Miss Piggy, Fozzie the Bear, Gonzo, and a host of other beloved characters, bringing a smile and gleeful encouragement to each of their lives.

14. National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)

Vacation at Lampoon’s is a comedic masterpiece crafted by some of the most talented and hilarious minds ever assembled. Directed by legendary filmmaker Harold Ramis and penned by the incomparable John Hughes, it stars the iconic Chevy Chase in perhaps his most iconic role: that of a hapless family man attempting to take his beloved but ever-bickering family from their Chicago home to their much-desired summer holiday destination in California’s Wally World, but not before being battered by a series of hilarious misadventures.

15. The Daytrippers (1996)

Greg Mottola’s outstanding debut as a writer and director, featuring Hope Davis as she embarks on a journey from Long Island to New York City to set things straight with her suspected straying husband. Impressing viewers with its sharp, witty dialogue and close quarters, the movie is loaded with unpredictable plot points while boasting an all-star cast including the likes of Parker Posey and Liev Schreiber.