
Road movies follow characters on journeys, often focusing on self-discovery, personal growth, and the relationships formed along the way.
1. Easy Rider (1969)
Dennis Hopper‘s counterculture classic follows two bikers as they travel across America’s Southwest and South.
Why it’s great:
- Iconic performances by Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper
- Captures the spirit of 1960s counterculture
- Groundbreaking soundtrack featuring contemporary rock music
2. Thelma & Louise (1991)
Ridley Scott‘s feminist road movie follows two women who become outlaws after a shooting incident.
Why it’s great:
- Strong performances by Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis
- Exploration of female friendship and empowerment
- Iconic ending and beautiful cinematography of the American West
3. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
This indie comedy follows a dysfunctional family on a cross-country trip to a children’s beauty pageant.
Why it’s great:
- Stellar ensemble cast including Steve Carell and Toni Collette
- Perfect balance of humor and heart
- Exploration of family dynamics and personal dreams
4. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
George Miller‘s post-apocalyptic action film is essentially one long, exhilarating road trip.
Why it’s great:
- Stunning practical effects and stunt work
- Charlize Theron’s powerful performance as Furiosa
- Innovative world-building and visual storytelling
5. The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
This biographical film follows the young Ernesto “Che” Guevara on a motorcycle journey across South America.
Why it’s great:
- Beautiful cinematography of South American landscapes
- Gael García Bernal’s nuanced performance as Guevara
- Exploration of social injustice and personal growth.