Unrealistic Car Chases in Movies: From Wanted to Matrix

Car chases have always been a significant part of the action genre, captivating audiences with their sheer excitement and adrenaline. However, not all car chases are created equally. Some stand out for their extreme, often unrealistic, portrayal of automotive performance and stunts. In this article, we explore some of the most unrealistic car chases from renowned films that have left viewers questioning the possibility of such stunts happening in real life.

The Stinker: “Wanted”

One particularly memorable car chase scene can be found in Zack Snyder’s “Wanted” (2008). In this film, Angelina Jolie and James McAvoy are chasing a criminal in a Dodge Viper, while a heavily modified UPS van pursues them. The chase takes place in the bustling streets of Washington D.C., with the NPC (non-player character) driving the Viper attempting to evade the van. However, as critics and fans alike pointed out, a Dodge Viper would likely outrun the van in much less than half a block. The performance depicted in the scene is wildly unrealistic, highlighting the gap between genre conventions and practicality.

The Matrix Reloaded: Virtual Reality at Its Best

The Matrix Reloaded (2003) provides an interesting take on car chases, which occur in a simulated reality. This film exploits the concept of a virtual world to its fullest extent, bending the laws of physics in ways that are impossible in real life. While the chase scene in Reloaded could be seen as a product of the virtual world, it still exists in a context where the rules of the Matrix operate in strange and unpredictable ways. Critics have noted that while the action scenes are awe-inspiring, they are often stretched so thin that they become more about the visual effects than the actual plausibility of the stunts.

The Bourne Identity: Miraculous Endurances

Another scene that stands out for its unrealistic portrayal is in the film “The Bourne Identity” (2002). In this action-packed thriller, a small car similar to a Ford Festiva is subjected to hits and near-misses from numerous vehicles. The car not only survives the collateral damage but continues to operate and drive as if nothing happened. The real-world performances of Ford Festivas would have suffered significant damage under such conditions, making the scene a clear illustration of cinematic exaggeration. The directorial choices in this chase sequence draw the line between what is realistically possible and what evokes the thrill of the genre.

Comedic Car Chases for Humor

Car chases can also serve the purpose of providing humor, as seen in the classic “Blues Brothers” (1980). While not an everyday occurrence in the action genre, scenes set for comedic effect often rely on exaggerated and illogical stunts. The unique nature of the Blues Brothers’ pursuit, far from being a serious chase, serves to highlight the absurdity of over-the-top action sequences. This broadens the range of car chase scenes, making them not just thrilling but also entertaining.

Conclusion

The pursuit of realism in car chase scenes can often be a challenge for filmmakers, as the need for dramatic effect sometimes clashes with practical considerations. From the unrealistic chase in “Wanted” to the virtual excitement in “The Matrix Reloaded,” and the miraculous endurance observed in “The Bourne Identity,” movies have always strived to deliver memorable and thrilling action sequences. While some chase scenes may be more believable than others, they all contribute to the overall excitement and entertainment value of the films they appear in.

Exploring these unrealistic yet iconic chase scenes serves as a reminder of the balance between realism and cinematic artistry. As audiences continue to seek out thrilling and entertaining rides, filmmakers will undoubtedly find new ways to push the boundaries of what is possible on screen.