Real American Hero

Real American Hero is a captivating action drama released in 1978, directed by Lou Antonio and starring an impressive lineup of actors like Brian Dennehy, Forrest Tucker, and Brian Kerwin. This biographical film explores themes of justice, corruption, resilience, and individual morality amid collective wrong.

Set against the backdrop of the 1950's American South, Brian Dennehy delivers an unforgettable performance as Buford Pusser, the legendary Tennessee lawman who refuses to succumb to the immorality and corruption that pervades his town. The story is fuelled by Pusser's unwavering conviction and courage to stand up against lawlessness in his community, a daunting task that invariably draws him and his family into a vexing world of danger.

Dennehy's stunning portrayal of Pusser is both heart-warming and heart-wrenching, especially as he balances fatherhood with his dangerous duty. We see a man who, while committed to upholding the law and confronting injustice, is also a loving family man, who continually wrestles to balance these often conflicting aspects of his life.

Forrest Tucker lends his talent to the character of Carl Pusser, Buford's father. His portrayal dramatically underlines the tension surging between a father's concern for his son's well-being and his admiration for his son's unyielding commitment to justice. Through their interactions, the audience gets a glimpse of the depth of their relationship, underlining the personal stakes behind Buford's professional struggles.

Brian Kerwin shines as Paul Hankins, Buford's deputy and confidant. He offers an empathetic perspective, providing a supporting voice and subtly questioning some of Buford's dangerous confrontations. He stands as an onlooker, a participant, and at times an adversary to Buford's crusade, bringing emotional depth and uncertainty to the narrative, which keeps the audience engaged and on edge.

The timeless backdrop of Tennessee is captured beautifully, making the rural landscape come alive. Conversely, the thriving, corrupted underworld reveals striking contrast, enveloping the viewers into a paradoxically entrancing and repulsive world.

Real American Hero artfully blends action and drama, providing ample thrills and suspense. It keeps viewers on tenterhooks as Buford navigates organised crime, corruption within the police force, and dangerous criminals. This responsibility becomes a lonely crusade, exposing one man's struggle against an entire army of illicit operators and a system that seems resistant to change.

The plot of Real American Hero forces audiences to ask difficult questions about morality, individual courage, and the potential cost of standing against injustice. Rather than glorifying his battles, the narrative presents them as arduous tasks demanding significant sacrifice and commitment. Viewers witness the trials and tribulations Buford faces in his quest to clean up his town, drawing on a sense of grit and determination that is both inspiring and harrowing.

A film about a loner lawman's struggle against an immoral system might appear bleak, but the story of Real American Hero is injected with warmth thanks to the strong relationships and commitments Buford maintains. As a result, the message of the film becomes not just about the battle against external evil, but the persistence of internal good, even amidst the most challenging circumstances.

Real American Hero is a cinematic tribute, credibly narrated with realism and humanity. The striking performances of the lead actors, the rawness of the story, the intricate narrative threads, and the potent themes make this film an incredible watch. With its realistic portrayal of a grim, yet the unyieldingly optimistic world of Buford Pusser, Real American Hero deserves its place among the classics of true crime cinema.