Watch Thunder and Lightning
- PG
- 1981
- 1 hr 35 min
-
5.2 (563)
Thunder and Lightning is a high-octane action film from 1977 starring David Carradine and Kate Jackson. The movie follows the story of a charming moonshine runner, Harley Thomas (Carradine), who is on the run from the law. Along the way, he teams up with Nancy Sue (Jackson), a smart and determined journalist who is investigating the illegal activities of a wealthy businessman named Crawford (played by Sterling Holloway).
As the two protagonists work together to expose the corrupt Crawford's crimes, they find themselves in the middle of a high-intensity car chase, a daring rescue mission, and a violent shootout. The film is set against the backdrop of the beautiful countryside of Tennessee, with sweeping shots of green valleys and winding roads as the characters race to bring justice to their communities.
David Carradine delivers a solid performance as the roguish Harley, portraying the character's devil-may-care attitude with an easy charm that endears him to the audience. Kate Jackson is equally impressive as Nancy Sue, bringing a level of sharp wit and intelligence to her portrayal that makes her character stand out. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable and adds a layer of tension to the movie.
Sterling Holloway is perfectly cast as the villainous Crawford, exuding just the right amount of arrogance and menace to make him a formidable opponent. His character's greed and corruption serve as the driving force behind the plot, creating a sense of urgency that propels the action forward. The supporting cast, which includes character actors like Scott Walker and Roger Cudney, also turn in solid performances that add depth to the story.
Thunder and Lightning is directed by Corey Allen, who also worked on numerous popular television shows, including The Fugitive and The Streets of San Francisco. Allen's skill as a director is evident in the movie's well-choreographed action sequences, which are both exciting and suspenseful.
The film's soundtrack, composed by Charles Bernstein, is another highlight. Bernstein's score blends country rock with a traditional orchestral sound, creating a unique and lively musical backdrop to the action. The movie's theme song, also titled "Thunder and Lightning," is an upbeat and catchy tune that is sure to stick with viewers long after the credits have rolled.
Overall, Thunder and Lightning is a solid action movie that delivers on its promise of high-octane thrills and spills. While it may not be groundbreaking in terms of its plot or characters, it's an enjoyable and well-crafted movie that stands the test of time. Fans of classic car chases and shootouts will appreciate the film's fast-paced action, while those looking for a bit of romance and humor will find plenty to enjoy as well.
If you're a fan of '70s-era action films, Thunder and Lightning is definitely worth checking out. Its blend of humor, romance, and high-intensity action create a winning formula that will keep viewers engaged from start to finish.
Thunder and Lightning is a 1981 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.2.