Gator (1976) is an American action film directed by Burt Reynolds and starring himself, Jack Weston, Lauren Hutton, and Jerry Reed. It is a sequel to the 1973 film White Lightning.
In Gator, Reynolds plays Gator McKlusky, a moonshiner who is released from prison and returns to his hometown to find it overrun by corruption. A corrupt sheriff, played by Weston, is working with a local crime boss, played by Reed, to extort money from the townspeople. Gator decides to take on the corruption and clean up his town.
Gator is a classic action film with a lot of heart. It features some great car chases, shootouts, and explosions. Reynolds is also in top form, delivering a charismatic and charming performance.
The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $11 million at the box office. It was praised for its action sequences, Reynolds' performance, and its social commentary on corruption.
Gator is a cult classic today, and it is considered to be one of Burt Reynolds' best films. It is a must-see for fans of action films, Burt Reynolds, and the 1970s.
Cast
- Burt Reynolds as Bobby "Gator" McKlusky
- Jack Weston as Irving Greenfield
- Lauren Hutton as Aggie Maybank
- Jerry Reed as "Bama" McCall
- Alice Ghostley as Emmeline Cavanaugh
- Dub Taylor as Mayor Caffrey
- Mike Douglas as The Governor
- Burton Gilliam as Smiley
- William Engesser as "Bones"
- John Steadman as Ned McKlusky
- Lori Futch as Suzie McKlusky
- Stephanie Burchfield as Young Girl
- Dudley Remus as Deputy Pogie, Dunston PD
- Alex Hawkins as Police Chief
- Don Ferguson as The Bartender
Reynolds honored his favorite professor from college, Watson B. Duncan III, with a cameo role in the film – casting him as the Governor's press secretary.
Director: Burt Reynolds
Writer: William W. Norton
Box Office Gross: NA
Distributor: United Artists
Release Date: August 25, 1976