Backdrop preview The Tracker backdrop
The Tracker

The Tracker (1988)

Mar 26, 1988 1h 38m Action Western TV Movie

After a series of vicious crimes by a renegade group of cowboys, led by "Red Jack" Stilwell, a legendary tracker, Noble Adams is pulled out of retirement to capture Stilwell, dead or alive. Reluctantly, needing more men, he allows his son, Tom to tag along, revealing to Tom a whole brutal side of ruthlessness Noble thought he left behind.

Directed by John Guillermin

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • John Guillermin
Writer
  • Kevin Jarre
Producer
  • Lance Hool

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

This high-octane Action/Western/TV Movie film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, The Tracker distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.

Director John Guillermin brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1988, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Tracker took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $4.8 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 143 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 1988, when this film was released:
  • MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
  • The Cold War was entering its final phase.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: March 26, 1988
  • Runtime: 1h 38m
  • Budget: $4,800,000

Similar Movies