Like Vanishing Point, the cinematography is stark and the script is minimal, with an undertone of existential angst.
Two Lane Blacktop deals with four people, the Driver (James Taylor), the Mechanic (Dennis Wilson), the Girl (Laurie Bird) and G. T. O. (Warren Oates) as they race cross-country, from Needles, California to Washington, D. C.
The Driver & the Mechanic are owners of a 1955 Chevy 150, souped up and primered. They make their living going from town to town in the U. S. desert Southwest, challenging locals to races they know they will win.
Along the way, the Girl joins them after getting bored with her surroundings.
As they race down old Route 66, they meet up with G. T. O., a mysterious character who tells multiple stories of how he got where he is today.
After seeing each other many times on the road, they meet up at a rural gas station and challenge each other to a race to Washington, D. C. "for pinks", or ownership of the others vehicle.
During the race, the group come together in many ways and unravel in many others.
A classic amongst lovers of old Route 66 and gearheads in general, this is a movie you should check out! (WP)(AMG)(IMDB)
(another link regarding the cars and the making of the film can be found at the great blog "The Selvedge Yard")
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