The Great Race is a comedy-adventure film directed by Blake Edwards and released in 1966. The movie stars an ensemble cast including Jack Lemmon, Tony Curtis, and Natalie Wood in the lead roles.
The story of the movie is set in the early 1900s and follows the rivalry between two daredevil racers, the Great Leslie (Tony Curtis) and Professor Fate (Jack Lemmon), as they compete in a cross-country automobile race from New York to Paris. Along the way, they encounter a host of obstacles and adversaries, including a beautiful photojournalist named Maggie DuBois (Natalie Wood).
The Great Race was a massive production that featured elaborate sets and costumes, as well as an extensive cast of extras and stunt performers. The movie was also notable for its use of innovative special effects, including a memorable pie fight scene that was filmed using over 4,000 pies.
Despite its high production values and star-studded cast, The Great Race was not a commercial success upon its release and received mixed reviews from critics. However, the movie has since gained a cult following and is now regarded as a classic of the comedy-adventure genre.
Overall, The Great Race is a fun and entertaining movie that offers a glimpse into the Hollywood of the 1960s and the era of big-budget, spectacle-driven filmmaking. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its enduring appeal and the timeless charm of its stars and story.