Rugged no-nonsense federal agent Ray Faulkner (played with delightfully growly macho gusto by Christopher George) recruits a motley bunch of chain gang convicts to assist him on his war against a nefarious moonshine ring run by the formidable Burl (Ralph Meeker in top slimy form). Director Burt Topper relates the entertaining story at a snappy pace, maintains an engaging breezy'n'easy tone throughout, and stages a wild barroom brawl, several car chases, and the energetic climactic shoot-out with aplomb. The neat script by William Huyck, John Milius, and James Gordon White presents a cool and colorful array of characters as well as a nifty premise that's impossible to resist. The lively acting by the stellar cast of familiar B-pic faces helps a whole lot: Fabian as the moody Sonny, Larry Bishop as reluctant peacenik Chandler, Tom Nardini as scruffy mechanic Billy Joe, Ross Hagen as the gruff Frank Davis, Leslie Parrish as the sweet Cissy, Robert DoQui as merry hipster Henry Reed, Joe Turkel as the weaselly Sam, Ron Rifkin as eager rookie agent Stewart Martin, and Cliff Osmond as dim-witted lackey Bubba. Lynda Day George pops up briefly in a small uncredited role. Richard C. Glouner's sharp cinematography makes snazzy use of fades and dissolves. The jaunty and flavorsome score by Michael Lloyd and Jerry Styner hits the rousing spot. A really fun flick.
Review of The Devil's 8
