Percorso infernale

"Checkered Flag or Crash" revolves around the Manila 1000, a grueling, multi-vehicle off road race that lasts three days. The man organizing the event is Bo Cochran (Larry Hagman of 'Dallas' fame), while the chief competitor is "Walkaway" Madden (Joe Don Baker, "Walking Tall"), who got that nickname because he's always been able to walk away from crashes in the past. Susan Sarandon ("The Rocky Horror Picture Show") is the photojournalist who's been promised a ride in the passenger seat of Maddens' car.

A strong bunch of stars - Sarandon is especially appealing - provide enough motivation to check out this car chase & car crash action flick. While it's ultimately nothing truly special, the Filipino setting does give it *some* distinction; the scenery is enjoyable, and looks good photographed in the 2.35:1 aspect ratio. First rate second unit work, a decent number of laughs, and a catchy theme song all help to keep this watchable.

Real-life racing legend Parnelli Jones plays himself; other supporting cast members include Playboy Playmate Daina House (who acted with Sarandon in "The Great Smokey Roadblock"), Logan Clarke ("Sweet Sixteen"), Dick Adair ("Blind Rage"), and Bill Cross ("Blue Chips"). Tough guy Baker is amusing as the kind of fiercely competitive guy with a "win at all costs" attitude, while Alan Vint ("Macon County Line") does well as superstitious racer Doc Pyle.

All in all, this should be acceptable entertainment for fans of this particular genre. The coin toss is indeed a comic highlight.

Six out of 10.