In the past five decades, literally hundreds of car–some of which have since become famous–have starred in movies and TV series. The latest vehicle garnering tons of Hollywood buzz is Herbie, who co-stars with Lindsay Lohan in Disney’s upcoming movie, Herbie: Fully Loaded.
Herbie shares some of the hardships that go along with being a celebrity automobile–as well as the multifaceted role he plays in his latest film, which opens June 22. He also has a few thoughts of his own to share with Hollywood.com about what he considers to be some of Hollywood’s hottest cars.
You go through a lot of physical changes in Herbie: Fully Loaded–including some hardcore body work. Was it difficult for you to step into each character?
Herbie: “(Herbie: Fully Loaded) was a very challenging role for me. I had to go through four big character changes, and the stunts in this film–unbelievable! Now that I think about it, I don’t think I was paid enough. My first appearance is as Junkyard Herbie, and I’m in serious need of a tune up. And boy do I get a tune up! As Tricked-Out Herbie, I make quite a name for myself as a street racer. The next phase I go through, as Demolition Derby Herbie, is pretty scary–for the Monster Trucks that is. I don’t mean to sound cocky, but pound for pound, I’m the toughest car out there. Finally, I become Nascar Herbie–the role I was born to play. Just wait until you see me on the track!”
Herbie: Fully Loaded is the fifth feature film in the Herbie series that started with The Love Bug in 1969. That was more than 30 years ago!
Herbie: “Ah, my first film role. It was quite an exciting experience and I remember it fondly–the money, the adoration, the cute little pink convertibles that would send gas to my home with anonymous love letters. My life was never the same after that.”
Batman‘s Batmobile (1966-2005)
Herbie:“The Batmobile is compensating for something…lack of luggage space, maybe? I met him once and I must say, he’s every bit as gloomy and serious as he looks. Might have something to do with the fact that he never goes day-cruising–having a strictly nighttime vigilante for an owner will do that to you though.”
James Bond’s Cars (Astin Martin, Lotus, BMW)
Herbie:“Bond and I ran into each other in Monte Carlo a few years back and he asked me if I was interested in joining him on a mission. Some might consider that an honor, but not me! I saw what happened to the Astin Martin, Lotus and BMW–I have no interest in becoming another one of his demolition vehicles.”
The General Lee (The Dukes of Hazzard)
Herbie:“Thank goodness I can open my doors. I admire the General Lee, but get along just fine without people are climbing in and out my windows. For a fun night on the town, you can’t find a better cruising buddy than the General Lee–though we usually end up in trouble with the law for some reason or the other.”
Christine (Christine)
Herbie: “Christine is a hot car, but boy, what a temper! I had a crush on her once–when I was going through my bad-girl phase. Though, after learning that she was possessed, I decided it might be best to give her some space.”
Back to the Future‘s Delorean
Herbie: “I’ve tried the whole time travel thing, but it wasn’t for me. Plus, last time I saw the Delorean, it was running on garbage. Great for fuel efficiency, horrible for your social life.”
Knight Rider‘s K.I.T.T.
“If you think he can talk, you should hear him sing! Poor K.I.T.T.–he never got the movie deal that he deserved.”
Greased Lightning from Grease
Herbie: “People always think Travolta was the star of that movie–but few people know that it was actually Greased Lightning that wrote and choreographed all the songs in the film. Here’s another tidbit that people don’t know–I auditioned for the drag race scene–made it to the second round of callbacks too. After that, nothing. It was very depressing.”
Austin Powers’ Shaguar
Herbie: “Ever known someone that comes to your parties, drinks all your gasoline, drips transmission fluid on your carpet, then leaves with the cute motorcycle you invited? That’s the Shaguar. Here’s a little piece of advice–never introduce him to your girlfriend.”
Smokey & the Bandit Firebird
Herbie: “Firebird and I go way back. The stories he could tell! Of course–he doesn’t talk, but kind of just grunts like Norm MacDonald’s impersonation of Burt”
