60
Metascore
7 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 75The A.V. ClubKeith PhippsThe A.V. ClubKeith PhippsOn one hand, it's an ultraviolent revenge fantasy, and on the other hand, it's a masterpiece of over-the-top unintentional hilarity—with a clenched-toothed performance by Baker serving as its centerpiece. It's in the latter capacity that Walking Tall can be highly recommended as an unconscionably good time.
- 70The New YorkerPauline KaelThe New YorkerPauline KaelThis rabble-rousing movie appeals to a deep-seated belief in simple, swift, Biblical justice; the visceral impact of the film makes one know how crowds must feel when they're being swayed by demagogues.
- 70Village VoiceAndrew SarrisVillage VoiceAndrew SarrisLike it or not, Walking tall is saying something very important to many people, and it is saying it with accomplished artistry. [21 Feb 1974, p.61]
- 70New York Magazine (Vulture)New York Magazine (Vulture)Walking Tall grabs you where trash and violence invariably do, with excellent performers, shrewd plotting and pacing. [18 Feb 1974, p.74]
- 50The New York TimesVincent CanbyThe New York TimesVincent CanbyValiant Southern sheriff. Effective, unsurprising.
- 50TV Guide MagazineTV Guide MagazineBaker stars as real-life Tennessee sheriff Buford Pusser, whose one-man battle against gambling, moonshine whiskey, and prostitution in his county elevated him to folk-hero stature in three movies.
- 50Time OutTime OutIt's an interesting example of how a stock Western plot can assume some fairly explicit political ramifications once it is transposed to a modern setting (not that that is any recommendation).