Watch Fight for Your Life

Fight for Your Life is a gritty and controversial exploitation film from 1977 that tells the story of three vicious escaped convicts who break into a Black family's home and hold them hostage. The film begins with convicts Jessie Lee Kane, played by actor William Sanderson, and his two cohorts, played by Robert O'Rourke and David Cargill, escaping from prison. They hijack a car and make their way to a small town, where they stop at the gas station run by the Bartlett family, a Black family whose father, John, is a former Vietnam vet.

The convicts demand John give them food and shelter, and when he refuses, they attack the family, eventually tying them up and holding them hostage in their own home. From there, the film becomes a brutal and unrelenting assault on the Bartlett family's very existence, as the racist and sadistic Jessie Lee terrorizes them with increasing levels of violence and cruelty.

Fight for Your Life is known for its unflinching portrayal of racism, violence, and sexual assault, as well as its controversial use of racist language and imagery. The film is often cited as a disturbing and problematic example of the exploitation genre, and it has been banned in several countries due to its graphic and disturbing content.

Despite its controversial reputation, Fight for Your Life is also seen as a culturally significant film that speaks to the realities of racism in America, particularly during the 1970s when the film was made. The film's director, Robert A. Endelson, has said that he made the film as a statement against racism and violence, and that he wanted to shock audiences into recognizing the need for change.

The film is anchored by strong performances from its cast, particularly Robert Judd as John Bartlett, who delivers a heartfelt and emotional portrayal of a father trying to protect his family in the face of overwhelming violence. Catherine Peppers and Lela Small also give powerful performances as John's wife and daughter, respectively, adding depth and humanity to the film's portrayal of a Black family under siege.

Overall, Fight for Your Life is a challenging and controversial film that demands to be taken seriously. While it may not be for everyone, its uncompromising approach to its subject matter is both thought-provoking and deeply unsettling, making it a film that is difficult to forget.

Fight for Your Life is a 1977 thriller with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.