One of the quintessential cult films of the 1970s, this Roger Corman-produced gem of sicko low-budget ingenuity is spun around a uniquely perverse premise: In the near future, the most popular sport is a cross-country race in which points are allotted for running down civilians, with extra points given for toddlers and anyone over 75. As a fable about inherent human bloodlust, political manipulation of the masses, and the extremes to which televised entertainment will go, it is frighteningly prescient, although somewhat undermined by its inherent bluntness. David Carradine, decked out in a leather outfit that was surely Tarantino’s inspiration for Pulp Fiction‘s Gimp, is the nominal star, but the real fun is watching a pre-Rocky Sylvester Stallone playing the loud-mouthed heavy. (Turner Classic Movies)