“Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo” is a family comedy film released in 1977 and is the third installment in the popular “Herbie” film series by Walt Disney Productions. Directed by Vincent McEveety, the movie follows the adventures of Herbie, the lovable Volkswagen Beetle with a mind of its own.
In this film, Herbie’s owner, race car driver Jim Douglas (played by Dean Jones), and his mechanic friend Wheely Applegate (played by Don Knotts) travel to Europe to participate in the fictional Trans-France Race. Herbie tags along for the journey, and along the way, he meets a charming female Volkswagen Beetle named Giselle (played by Julie Sommars).
As the race progresses, Herbie and Giselle develop a romantic connection, and together, they encounter various challenges, including sabotage attempts and humorous mishaps. Throughout the film, Herbie proves his racing prowess and loyalty to his friends, making him a lovable and endearing character to the audience.
“Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo” features exciting car races, picturesque European locations, and a heartwarming story of love and friendship. The film also includes a memorable race scene through the streets of Monte Carlo, providing thrilling and entertaining moments for viewers of all ages.
The movie received a positive response from both audiences and critics and contributed to the continued popularity of the “Herbie” film series. It also spawned another sequel, “Herbie Goes Bananas” (1980), further cementing the beloved character of Herbie in Disney’s film legacy.
Overall, “Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo” is a delightful and lighthearted family film that showcases the enduring appeal of the anthropomorphic car and its ability to capture the hearts of audiences worldwide with its charm, humor, and feel-good entertainment.
Fun Facts
- “Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo” is the third film in the “Herbie the Love Bug” series and was released in 1977. In this installment, Herbie and his driver, Jim Douglas, participate in a European racing competition in Monte Carlo.
- The film features the return of Dean Jones as Jim Douglas, the human protagonist from the first “Love Bug” movie. Dean Jones reprised his role and once again teamed up with Herbie for the adventure.
- In “Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo,” Herbie falls in love with a Lancia Scorpion named Giselle. This romantic subplot adds a humorous twist to the film as Herbie tries to impress his new love interest throughout the racing competition.
Additional Details
Cast
- Dean Jones: Jim Douglas
- Don Knotts: Wheely Applegate
- Julie Sommars: Diane Darcy
- Jacques Marin: Inspector Bouchet
- Roy Kinnear: Quincey
- Bernard Fox: Max
- Eric Braeden: Bruno von Stickle
- Xavier Saint-Macary: Detective Fontenoy
- François Lalande: Monsieur Ribeaux
- Alan Caillou: Emile
- Laurie Main: Duval
- Mike Kulcsar: Claude Gilbert
- Johnny Haymer: Race official
- Stanley Brock: Taxi driver
- Gérard Jugnot: Waiter
- Jean-Marie Proslier: Doorman
- Tom McCorry: Showroom M.C.
- Lloyd Nelson: Mechanic
- Jean-Jacques Moreau: Truck driver
- Yveline Brière: Girl friend
- Sébastien Floche: French tourist
- Madeleine Damien: Old woman
- Alain Janey: Man at café
- Raoul Defosse: Police Captain
- Ed Marcus: Exhibit M.C.
Crew
- Director: Vincent McEveety
- Producer: Ron Miller
- Music: Frank De Vol