Dive into the world of petrol stations with this curated list of biopics that not only celebrate the history and culture of these roadside havens but also explore the lives of the people who made them what they are today. From tales of innovation and entrepreneurship to stories of community and resilience, these films offer a unique perspective on a seemingly mundane aspect of everyday life, making it anything but ordinary.
The Great Waldo Pepper (1975)
Description: Set in the 1920s, this film includes scenes at petrol stations, reflecting the era's fascination with aviation and the role of service stations in supporting it.
Fact: Robert Redford stars as Waldo Pepper, and the film was inspired by the life of barnstorming pilots.
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The Straight Story (1999)
Description: This film features a journey across America, with many stops at petrol stations, highlighting their role in American culture. It's about Alvin Straight, who rides a lawnmower to visit his estranged brother.
Fact: Directed by David Lynch, this is one of his most gentle and heartwarming films, and it was inspired by a true story.
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The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
Description: Although primarily about Che Guevara's journey across South America, the film includes numerous scenes at petrol stations, showcasing their importance in long-distance travel.
Fact: The film was shot in several South American countries, and Gael García Bernal's performance as young Che was critically acclaimed.
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The World's Fastest Indian (2005)
Description: This biopic follows Burt Munro, a New Zealander who broke speed records on his Indian Scout motorcycle, often stopping at petrol stations during his journey to Bonneville Salt Flats.
Fact: Anthony Hopkins gives a remarkable performance, and the film was shot in New Zealand and Utah, capturing the essence of the petrol station culture of the time.
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The Art of Racing in the Rain (2019)
Description: This film, while focusing on a race car driver, includes scenes at petrol stations, reflecting the lifestyle and culture of the racing community.
Fact: The film features a dog, Enzo, who narrates the story, adding a unique perspective to the narrative.
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The Founder (2016)
Description: While not exclusively about petrol stations, this film delves into the fast-food industry's growth, which is closely tied to the development of service stations. It's about Ray Kroc, who turned McDonald's into a global empire, often starting with locations at petrol stations.
Fact: Michael Keaton's portrayal of Ray Kroc was widely praised, and the film was shot in various locations, including a recreated 1950s McDonald's.
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The Road (2009)
Description: While not a biopic, this post-apocalyptic film includes scenes at abandoned petrol stations, reflecting on their past significance and the human condition.
Fact: The film was adapted from Cormac McCarthy's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, and Viggo Mortensen's performance was widely acclaimed.
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The Yellow Handkerchief (2008)
Description: This film features a road trip with stops at petrol stations, showcasing the characters' interactions and the stations' role in their journey.
Fact: The film was adapted from a short story by Pete Hamill and features William Hurt in one of his most nuanced performances.
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The Road Within (2014)
Description: This road trip film includes stops at petrol stations, highlighting their role as gathering places for travelers with different stories and backgrounds.
Fact: The film was originally titled "The Way, Way Back" and was remade for an American audience.
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The Last Ride (2011)
Description: This film tells the story of Hank Williams' final days, with several scenes at petrol stations, emphasizing their significance in the life of a traveling musician.
Fact: The film features a soundtrack of Hank Williams' music, and the director, Harry Thomason, is known for his work on "Designing Women."
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