Backdrop preview Walking Tall Part II backdrop
Walking Tall Part II

Walking Tall Part II (1975)

The Walking Tall legacy continues with Bo Svenson as Sheriff Buford Pusser, a one-man army trying to rid his town of corruption. Out to avenge his wife's death at the hand of the mob, Sheriff Pusser blows up their moonshine operation. With Buford breathing down their necks, the syndicate hires two hitmen; one a maniacal race car driver, the other a deadly gunslinger. Any other man would've hightailed it out of there, but then Pusser is no ordinary man.

Watch Trailer
Directed by Earl Bellamy

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Earl Bellamy
Writer
  • Howard B. Kreitsek
Producer
  • Charles A. Pratt

Reviews

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

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Walking Tall Part II 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 Earl Bellamy 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 1975, 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 Walking Tall Part II took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 109 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 164 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
  • The musical score contains over 46 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 1975, when this film was released:
  • The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
  • Disco music dominated popular culture.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While Walking Tall Part II shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Coffy, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Walking Tall Part II subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Punisher and The Brave One explore similar territory, Walking Tall Part II stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: September 28, 1975
  • Runtime: 1h 49m

Similar Movies

Coffy
Coffy
1973
6.7
The Punisher
The Punisher
2004
6.3
The Brave One
The Brave One
2007
6.6
The Punisher
The Punisher
1989
5.8