One of the rare occasions where a TV movie is considered good enough to be released as an actual theatrical release, Steven Spielberg’s debut feature is the movie that set him on the road to film-making superstardom in a tale that even today remains one of the most suspenseful and accomplished of its’ kind as a road movie.
Dennis Weaver is driving along the California roads in isolated circumstances, when he encounters an ominous rusted truck. Passing it several times, the mysterious driver is determined to hold Weaver back – and then seems determined to kill him…period…..
The concept and plot is simple and well staged, with the trademark filmic style that elevated Spielberg in films like JAWS and JURASSIC PARK. Weaver is excellent as the stressed out driver determined to get to his destination.