Watch Jackson County Jail

Jackson County Jail is a gritty, suspenseful 1976 film telling the story of Dinah Hunter (Yvette Mimieux), a young aspiring actress who finds herself in a nightmare after being arrested for a small drug offense in Oklahoma. After encountering a corrupt lawyer and judge and nearly being raped by a lecherous sheriff, she manages to escape in the sheriff's car, but crashes it when a police car gives chase.

Injured and alone, Dinah finds herself stranded in the middle of nowhere when a kind stranger, Coley (Tommy Lee Jones), picks her up and brings her to his isolated cabin in the woods. Despite his initial distrust of her, the two form a bond as Dinah shares her story with him. But their peace is short-lived, as the sheriff and his deputies eventually track her down and surround the cabin, leading to a tense standoff.

Throughout the film, Dinah is shown struggling to survive in a system where corruption and abuse of power are rampant. From the moment she is arrested, she is subjected to strip searches and belittling treatment from the all-male staff. Underlying the character's plight is a larger commentary on the ways in which the justice system can fail individuals, particularly those who are vulnerable and marginalized.

The film was directed by Michael Miller and is known for its exploitation elements, including graphic violence, nudity, and sex scenes. However, it also tackles themes that remain relevant today, such as police brutality and the ways in which the justice system can disproportionately harm people of color, women, and the poor.

Yvette Mimieux gives a powerful performance as Dinah, showcasing her range as an actress as she transitions from a hopeful dreamer to a terrified survivor. Meanwhile, Tommy Lee Jones delivers a nuanced portrayal of Coley, a character who could easily have fallen into the trope of the "gruff but caring mountain man." The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, and their scenes together are some of the film's most affecting.

Despite its flaws, Jackson County Jail is a gripping and thought-provoking film that remains relevant in today's society. Through its depiction of a flawed justice system and the resilience of its characters, the movie offers a searing critique of power and corruption in American institutions. It is a film that lingers long after the credits roll, leaving the viewer to grapple with its difficult questions.

Jackson County Jail is a 1976 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.