Most of the action in ‘s 1974 directorial debut, , unfolds over the course of an extended car chase as Goldie Hawn and William Atherton’s characters try to evade a long convoy of police vehicles in an effort to regain custody of their young son from foster care. While the film predated high-speed freeway car chases, modern audiences might be reminded of such events, including O.J.
Simpson’s infamous white Bronco chase, which unfolded roughly 30 years ago, on June 17, 1994. And sure enough, Spielberg himself admitted he thought of his own film when he saw the Bronco chase, which riveted audiences as it took over TV. Speaking after a 50th-anniversary screening of at the 2024 , Spielberg jokingly said he thought, “Shit, they’re stealing my thunder,” when he saw the Simpson chase.
Elsewhere during the post-screening Q&A, Spielberg reflected on making the film, including casting lead Hawn and its struggles at the box office as well as how it led to his next film, . After a brief video message from Hawn, who shared fond memories of working with the Hollywood legend, Spielberg spoke about how he thought of her for his lead role when studio Universal said they wouldn’t make the movie without a star. “She has a pure and honest heart,” said Spielberg.
“The movie wouldn’t have gotten made without her.” Though Hawn wasn’t previously known for projects like , Spielberg felt she was right for it. However, he noted expectations backfired as he argued audiences expe.
