The 2001 revenge thriller Joy Ride has surged to become the fifth-most-watched title on Netflix UK, with viewers warning it will fundamentally alter how they drive. The film, co-written by J.J. Abrams before his work on Lost and Star Trek, follows college freshman Lewis Thomas (Paul Walker) on a cross-country road trip to win the girl of his dreams. When he rescues his older brother Fuller (Steve Zahn), Fuller goads him into a prank over a CB radio on a lonely trucker known as Rusty Nail. The trucker, voiced by Ted Levine (Buffalo Bill in The Silence of the Lambs), seeks brutal revenge.
Fan Reactions and Chart Performance
At the time of writing, Joy Ride is the fifth-most-watched title among UK subscribers, according to Netflix data. Fans have called it 'the most effective revenge thriller ever' and 'one of the scariest movies of the 2000s'. One viewer warned: 'After watching this high-octane, rare shining example of 2000s-era horror gem, I dare you to so much as pass a truck on the right ever again!' Another described it as 'a masterpiece. Right as you take a deep breath and the adrenaline slows, here we go again. Never cared for JJ Abrams until seeing his name on the credits. This movie makes you want to drive cross-country, and it never gets old.'
Critical and Audience Response
While the film was not an overwhelming critical hit upon its original release, it has gained a strong cult following. One fan admitted: 'It scared me half to death. It was a good movie with an original plot, and the actors did well.' Another added: 'I thought this was one of the most suspenseful thrillers I have seen in my entire life. It was such a brilliant idea. I kept wondering what Rusty Nail would do next! 10/10.'
Cast and Background
The film stars the late Paul Walker, best known for the Fast and Furious franchise, alongside Steve Zahn (White Lotus). Ted Levine provides the menacing voice of Rusty Nail. J.J. Abrams co-wrote the screenplay before his acclaimed TV work on Lost and Fringe, and his directorial efforts on Star Trek (2009) and Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Joy Ride is now streaming on Netflix.
