Summary:
- The article discusses the controversial decision to destroy brand-new Pontiac Firebirds in the 1980 film "Smokey and the Bandit II." The filmmakers intentionally wrecked and trashed several Firebirds, which were considered high-performance and desirable cars at the time.
- The article explores the reasons behind this decision, which was primarily driven by the need to create dramatic car chases and stunts for the film. The destruction of the Firebirds was seen as a necessary sacrifice to achieve the desired cinematic effect.
- The article also touches on the cultural significance of the "Smokey and the Bandit" franchise and the impact it had on the popularity of the Pontiac Firebird, which became closely associated with the films.