Rat Race

Six ordinary people are pulled into a wildly reckless race staged by a Las Vegas casino tycoon who loves palming off a big payday to the most shameless players. Each contestant carries a different backstory and a motive for the prize, while a vault stuffed with two million dollars sits locked and waiting miles from the starting point. The tycoon and his circle watch from a private suite, betting on every misstep and clever shortcut alike. The only rule is that there are no rules as the group chases the money across a string of cities, facing car crashes, blunders, and surprising alliances along the way. The prize is more than money for some, a chance to prove themselves under pressure, while others chase fame or escape debts turning the road into a living stage for pratfalls and quick improvisations.

Released in 2001 and directed by Jerry Zucker, Rat Race presents an original screenplay by Andy Breckman. It brings together an eclectic ensemble and road movie energy as the racers sprint from neon Las Vegas to remote towns.

Box office details are not included in the data provided, but Rat Race was released to a wide audience and is remembered for its big ensemble set pieces and rapid pace rather than quiet impulses. The film keeps the pace brisk and the gags coming.

Rat Race helped define a late 90s to early 2000s humor vibe with a big cast and rapid fire set pieces. Its cameos and physical gags echo the era's appetite for high energy, crowd pleasing comedy.

Critics offered mixed responses, praising the film's energy and star packed ensemble while calling the plot loose and the humor broad. The movie leans into themes of greed and luck under pressure, celebrating resilience and quick improvisation amid chaos. Some critics note the pacing can feel uneven and overstuffed.