There’s a wealth of B-movie actions flicks that supposedly informed the likes of Quentin Tarantino and his consort. Whether or not the various lists floating around the internet have been comprised with any sort of real reference guide remains to be seen. But that’s how I stumbled upon Walking Tall. No, it’s not the Dewey Cox storey and its’ not the 2004 version of the story, replete with muscle bound former wrestlers. But this 1974 action flick has a high enough gore quotient to make a must-see for at least a few weirdoes out there.

As a disclaimer, the fact that Walking Tall clocks in at over two hours is an abomination. There’s no need for such long windedness when dealing with a redemption tale of this nature. What’s more is the fact that with all that time, there’re a number of characters who don’t actually get fleshed out, just appear every once in a while and than disappear just as quickly. That being said, the basic premise is pretty unique despite the film following something of a traditional arc.

Directed by School of the Art Institute of Chicago alum, Phil Karlson, who was also responsible for efforts like Ladies of the Chorus, the first staring role for one Marilyn Monroe, as well as a film starring Elvis, turned in a southern tale of money, booze, gambling and violence.

In the lead role, Joe Don Baker, a familiar face if not a familiar name from work as varied as Cool Hand Luke and Fletch, becomes Tennessee sheriff Buford Pusser. The entire affair is apparently based upon experiences Pusser himself went through. Hopeful, there wasn’t as much death and dismay.

But basically, Pusser returns to his family’s farm after a go at the professional wrestling circuit which found the man beholden to whoever held the most money. It’s premise obviously sets up Walking Tall for a few skirmishes. And within the first half hour, it’s apparent that Pusser’s hometown has undergone a good deal of change since he left.

Desiring a proper and lawful town to raise his to children, Pusser runs for sheriff. He wins, ‘natch, but only after a few public scrapes with the presiding law official.

Once in office, Pusser attempts to stave off the corruption that’s inundated the city. But with all the perks these crooked business dealings have brought all involved, it’s got to be a tough battle. And that explains Pusser carrying around a giant log to beat up bad guys with.

The pacing and story might not totally enthrall all viewers, but Walking Tall is certainly a film that could have only been birthed during the seventies.