After watching both 'Duel' and 'Mad Max: Fury Road' we found that they share multiple similarities with one another, besides the high speed chase that frames their story.
They involve the performative acts of masculinity against backdrops that are fundamentally seen as archetypes of male culture. 'Duel' brings the visual notion of the old west as the protagonist David Mann travels further and further away from his Suburbian safety net as he ventures forth in the great unknown. Whilst 'Mad Max: Fury Road', revisits aspects of viking culture and male martyrdom.
Additionally, the iconography within these films are key to understanding their message. Within 'Duel' cowboy boots and hats become the visual indicator warning David that he fails to measure up the machismo of the stoic and quiet males he encounters during the films. The production design in certain scenes help affirm this message, as in one scene he is surrounded by flowers and pink booths. The truck chasing him thus becomes the embodiment of his fear and a metaphor for penis envy. Something David ultimately accepts and defeats through the possession that determine him as a man; his car and job.
With 'Mad Max:Fury Road' the iconography is again brought forth with the appearance of Imperator Furiosa and her seemingly male appearance. As the film continues it stresses the bond between Woman and Man must develop beyond sexual desire and their needs to to be a mutual respect and understanding.