Watch Flatbed Annie and Sweetie Pie

Flatbed Annie and Sweetie Pie is a 1979 comedy-drama film that follows the misadventures of two female truck drivers as they travel across the United States in their flatbed truck. Annie Potts and Kim Darby portray the titular characters, Flatbed Annie and Sweetie Pie, respectively, while Harry Dean Stanton co-stars as a drifter they encounter along the way.

The film opens with Flatbed Annie and Sweetie Pie hauling a load of cars from California to Illinois. Along the way, they get into all sorts of trouble, including a collision with a train and a run-in with a shady character (Stanton) who tries to steal their truck. Despite these setbacks, the two women remain upbeat and determined to deliver their cargo on time.

As they continue on their journey, Flatbed Annie and Sweetie Pie encounter a colorful cast of characters, including a group of cowboys, a motorcycle gang, and a group of hippies. Along the way, they also confront their own personal demons, including Sweetie Pie's fear of commitment and Annie's guilt over leaving her children behind to pursue her dream of becoming a truck driver.

Despite its lighthearted tone, the film explores serious themes, such as the struggles faced by women in male-dominated industries and the social and economic issues affecting rural communities. Director Robert Greenwald deftly balances these heavier themes with humor and heart, creating a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The standout performances by Potts and Darby help to anchor the film, with both actresses bringing depth and nuance to their respective roles. Potts, in particular, shines as the brash and confident Flatbed Annie, a character who defies gender stereotypes and challenges the status quo at every turn.

The film's visual style is also notable, with the wide-open spaces of the American West providing a stunning backdrop for the action. Cinematographer Jules Brenner makes excellent use of natural light and bold, saturated colors to capture the beauty of the landscape and the characters' journey through it.

Overall, Flatbed Annie and Sweetie Pie is a charming and engaging film that deftly blends humor, drama, and social commentary. The film's message of female empowerment and resilience still resonates today, making it a timeless classic for audiences of all ages.

Flatbed Annie and Sweetie Pie is a 1979 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes.