Cheech And Chong Up In Smoke Motorcycle Scene
When it comes to stoner comedies, few films are as iconic as Cheech and Chong's Up in Smoke. Released in 1978, the movie was a huge success and helped to cement Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong as two of the most beloved comedians of their generation. One of the most memorable moments in the film is undoubtedly the motorcycle scene, which has become a cultural touchstone for fans of the movie.
Setting the Scene
The motorcycle scene takes place about halfway through the film, and it's a pivotal moment in the story. Cheech and Chong's characters, Pedro and Man, are on the run from the police after getting busted for smoking a joint. They're desperate to get out of Los Angeles and make their way to Tijuana, so they come up with a plan to steal a van made entirely out of marijuana. But first, they need to get their hands on a motorcycle to tow the van.
The scene begins with Pedro and Man wandering through a junkyard, looking for a motorcycle to steal. They eventually come across a beat-up Harley Davidson, which they quickly hotwire and take off on. As they speed through the streets of Los Angeles, they're pursued by a group of police officers in patrol cars and on motorcycles.
The Chase Sequence
What follows is one of the most memorable chase sequences in film history. Pedro and Man weave in and out of traffic, narrowly avoiding collisions with other vehicles as they try to shake the cops. The motorcycle itself is a character in the scene, with its loud engine and distinctive appearance adding to the excitement and energy of the moment.
As the chase continues, Pedro and Man pull off a number of impressive stunts, including jumping over a line of parked cars and riding up a flight of stairs. The scene is a testament to the skill of the film's stunt coordinators, who created a thrilling and believable sequence that still holds up today.
The Music
One of the most important elements of the motorcycle scene is the music. The song "Born to Be Wild" by Steppenwolf plays over the entire sequence, adding to the sense of rebellion and excitement. The song was already a classic by the time Up in Smoke was released, having been featured in the iconic motorcycle movie Easy Rider a decade earlier. But its use in the Cheech and Chong film helped to cement it as a cultural touchstone for a new generation of fans.
The Legacy
Today, the motorcycle scene from Up in Smoke is still celebrated as one of the most memorable moments in film history. It's been referenced and parodied in countless other movies and TV shows, and it's become a beloved part of stoner culture. But beyond all that, it still stands as a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the filmmakers who brought it to life. It's a moment that captures the anarchic spirit of the 1970s, and it's a reminder of just how much fun movies can be.