Ford Mustang in Movies
For over four decades, the Mustang has been an integral part of American car culture. With its powerful engine and stylish exterior, it's easy to see why movie directors and production teams have chosen it to play starring roles in various films and TV programs. Actors like Will Smith, Sean Connery, Steve McQueen and Nicolas Cage have all driven Ford Mustangs in hit movies, and most of those actors liked the car so much that they bought one for themselves.
By various estimates, over five hundred movies and hundreds more TV programs have featured the Mustang since the car debuted in 1964. Sit down in front of the TV, and you'll likely see at least one program that features this iconic car. Movies such as I Am Legend, Bullitt, and Back to the Future II all have the Mustang playing at least a supporting role. Here are some other silver-screen moments:
- Goldfinger. This James Bond movie has the distinction of being the first movie to feature the car, being driven by a female assassin. The chase is short-lived; Bond ends up shredding the car's tires and rocker panels.
- Bullitt. Steve McQueen plays a detective who propels a '68 GT390 through the streets of San Francisco; the high point of the movie is an almost ten-minute car chase against foes in a blacked-out Dodge Charger.
- Gone in 60 Seconds. This movie has an original 1974 iteration and a 2000 remake. For sheer action, it's hard to beat this one. The original film features a '73 Mach I, while the remake features a GT500 designed by Chip Foose.
- True Crime. Clint Eastwood stars as a reporter who gets a second chance to make things right. Both Eastwood and his car- an '83 Mustang convertible- have more than a few miles on them.
It's really easy to see why Hollywood has had a 45-year love affair with the Ford Mustang. They're completely American, fast, fun sports cars, and they will surely have a place in America's hearts and film repertoires for years to come.