Fairly dreadful sequel to "Smokey and the Bandit" arrived some three years later, and most of the principal players look a bit sheepish about the entire enterprise--none more so than Sally Field as "Frog", the Bandit's main squeeze. In the film (and in the outtakes played at the end),Field seems edgy and defensive, which probably means she got a good look at this screenplay and felt trapped (an understandable reaction, but deadly in a comedy). Written by Jerry Belson and Brock Yates from a treatment by Michael Kane, the movie immediately gets off on the wrong foot with Field once again running out on a wedding (to Sheriff Justice's son for the second time). Seems she can't reach the Bandit, whose inflated ego and sense of self-importance has alienated all his friends. Moody, unhappy Burt Reynolds only perks up in his scenes with Dom DeLuise, but for the most part limps through these half-hearted proceedings like a celebrity on the downhill slide. Hal Needham's direction isn't any help (he's at the mercy of the woebegone script),but there is an elephant around for the occasional sight-gag--and Jackie Gleason in three roles. * from ****

SMOKEY AND THE BANDIT II is a big step down from the first movie, which was no real classic to begin with. This one feels like a tired rehash and the idea of transporting an elephant cross-country just feels ridiculous. Sure, there are some good car chase scenes and crash stunts and Jackie Gleason is as amusing as ever, but Burt Reynolds plays his role too boorishly by now and Sally Field is just irritating.

Big Enos Burdett (Pat McCormick) is running for Governor of Texas, and uses Bandit (Burt Reynolds) and Cledus (Jerry Reed) to transport a mysterious cargo. Cledus enlists the help of Carrie (Sally Field) who abandons Junior once again to convince a drunken Bandit to do the run. Surprise, surprise, the cargo is a giant elephant and mayhem ensues.

The premise is complete nonsense. It's really a stupid setup to allow the gang to regroup and have more fun. This time they kidnap doc (Dom DeLuise) to treat the sick elephant. He adds a bit of fun that would lead to Cannonball Run. It's all harmless stupid fun.

Then there's a massive cops versus truckers demolition derby. That might be worth the watch all by itself. It's a lot of joyful destruction.