The Best Old Movies on a Big Screen This Week: NYC Repertory Cinema Picks, September 30-October 1
Used Cars (1980)
Directed by Robert Zemeckis
In 1980, Ronald Reagan began his first term and Robert Zemeckis released Used Cars. Both could be considered absurdist farces. Kurt Russell’s fast-talking car salesman wants to be a “respectable” politician, and he’s willing to lie, cheat, and scam his way into office. Doing so means challenging the conservative establishment, subverting old school machismo, and blurring the boundaries of morality. Brazenly riotous, and self-aware, Used Cars refuses to believe “this country’s gone to the dogs,” as Jack Warden’s villain states. It does however embrace a brand of heroism that gives no fucks. Maybe a little positive irresponsibility can make America great again. Glenn Heath, Jr. (October 1, 4:30pm; October 5, 8pm at MoMA’s Zemeckis retrospective)