Smokey and the Bandit - Watch Order: Release Order
The Smokey and the Bandit trilogy represents 1970s-80s car chase entertainment, starring Burt Reynolds as the charismatic Bandit and Jackie Gleason as the unforgettable Sheriff Buford T. Justice. The first two films follow the classic formula of cross-country runs with the law in hot pursuit, featuring memorable characters, spectacular stunts, and plenty of Southern charm.
Part 3 shifts focus significantly, with Jerry Reed taking over the Bandit role while Reynolds appears only in a cameo. The tone and approach change considerably, making it feel quite different from its predecessors and not living up to them.
Linear Timeline: Release Order = Story Order
Smokey and the Bandit
A race car driver tries to transport an illegal beer shipment from Texas to Atlanta in under 28 hours, picking up a reluctant bride-to-be on the way.
Smokey and the Bandit II
The Bandit goes on another cross-country run, transporting an elephant from Florida to Texas. And, once again, Sheriff Buford T. Justice is on his tail.
Smokey and the Bandit Part 3
The Enos duo convince Cletus, aka The Bandit, to come out of hiding and help them promote their new restaurant. With a little coaxing, he agrees, producing an almost-creaky Trigger as his mode of transport. But his nemesis, Sheriff Buford T. Justice, is on the hunt, forcing Cletus and Trigger to hit the road. Can they steer clear of the vengeful sheriff?
Other Film Series
Armor of God
Jackie Chan's globe-trotting adventure trilogy following treasure hunter Asian Hawk on international quests for ancient artifacts.
Ghostbusters
A supernatural comedy franchise about paranormal investigators who capture ghosts in New York City, spanning multiple decades and timelines.
In the Line of Duty
A landmark Hong Kong action franchise featuring female police officers in intense martial arts and stunt-heavy adventures.
James Bond
The longest-running film franchise in cinema history, following the adventures of British secret agent 007 across six decades and six different actors.
Kingsman
A stylish spy action franchise blending high-octane espionage with humor and British charm, following the secret Kingsman organization from its WWI origins to modern-day adventures.
Taxi
French action-comedy franchise about a taxi driver and a clumsy cop fighting crime in Marseille, plus an unconnected American remake set in New York.