Cast
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Andy Griffith
as Sam Farragut
William Shatner
as Warren Summerfield
Robert Reed
as Paul McIlvain
Marjoe Gortner
as Terry Maxon
Angie Dickinson
as Nancy McIlvain
Janet Margolin
as Krissie Kincaid
Lorraine Gary
as Lila Summerfield
John Barbour
as Howard Norlan
Robert Burton
as Michael
Marilyn Hearn
as Loris
William Wintersole
as Mr. Perrins
Paul Kent
as Dr. Harris
John Brascia
as Capt. Guiterrez
Steve DeFrance
as Cantina Local (uncredited)
Neil Summers
as Cantina Local (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Robert Michael Lewis
Writer
- Jack Turley
Producer
- Anthony Wilson
Reviews
Wuchak
_**An excellent TV adventure/drama with a great cast**_
Four businessmen (Andy Griffith, William Shatner, Robert Reed and Marjoe Gortner) who take a trip through the desert wilderness of Baja California on dirt bikes. Griffith plays Sam Farragut, an arrogant mogul who thinks money is power and anyone can be bought if the price is right; and, if they can't, well, they'll just have to be discarded one way or another. Needless to say, the trip doesn't go as pleasantly as planned.
If you didn't think it was possible for Griffith to play a robust villain you need to see film. Andy just eats up the role of the dastardly Farragut. Not only is his performance a pleasure to behold, it rings true! All the other actors are perfectly cast, as are the wives and girlfriend of the three subordinate bikers, Lorraine Gary, Angie Dickinson and Janet Margolin respectively.
Released to TV in 1974 as a "movie of the week, "Pray for the Wildcats" is a morality tale in the manner of "Deliverance," except that the crime is inverted and the trip takes place in the SW desert/coast rather than a wild river in Georgia. Although a television movie, it is every bit as good as "Deliverance" and perhaps even better. And, thankfully, it doesn't contain anything as hard to watch as that infamous "squeal like a pig" scene.
Judging from the reviews, many will ridicule such commendations. In fact, for reasons that elude me "Pray for the Wildcats" is often mocked as "campy" and "unintentionally funny." Really? Anyone who thinks it's campy doesn't know what camp is. This is a serious drama/adventure/thriller with the requisite soap operatics, but nothing overkill and definitely within the realm of believability. Another overdone criticism is Shatner's hairpiece, which is odd since it definitely LOOKS like his natural hair (not that it is).
The real reason reviewers make fun of "Pray for the Wildcats" is because (1) it's a TV movie and (2) three of the stars had well-known TV shows -- The Andy Griffith Show, Star Trek and The Brady Bunch -- and, gee, I guess there's no way they could really act and break away from their typecast roles. But they can and do superbly here.
Another thing I love about this film is the powerful message: ***SPOILER ALERT*** One man sins greatly, but has zero remorse and tries to cover it up through his power and money; another man also sins, but realizes his mistake and ultimately proves his character; the other two show that they believe money and position are more important than justice and therefore prove their lack of character. ***END SPOILER***
The film was shot in Arizona and Baja California and runs 100 minutes.
GRADE: A+
Feb 26, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Pray for the Wildcats examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Robert Michael Lewis 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1974, 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 Pray for the Wildcats took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 158 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 77 unique compositions.
- The film contains approximately 1501 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1974, when this film was released:
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Pray for the Wildcats shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike American Beauty, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Pray for the Wildcats offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Devil's Rejects and Bird on a Wire explore similar territory, Pray for the Wildcats stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 23, 1974
- Runtime: 1h 40m
