“Gator” (1976)

Action

Running Time: 115 minutes

Written by: William W. Norton

Directed by: Burt Reynolds

Featuring: Burt Reynolds, Jack Weston, Lauren Hutton and Jerry Reed

Bama McCall: “Don’t you ever knock on the door or nothin’? I mean, you could’ve caught a fella with his britches down.”

Burt Reynolds’ Gator (1976) is an intriguing mix of action, comedy, and backwoods crime drama, serving as a sequel to White Lightning (1973). This time around, Reynolds not only stars as Gator McKlusky but also steps behind the camera for his directorial debut. The result is a film that is part moonshine adventure, part caper, and part good ol’ boy charm, with Reynolds’ signature smirk leading the way.

After his adventures in White Lightning, ex-con and former moonshine runner Gator McKlusky (Burt Reynolds) is reluctantly pulled back into law enforcement schemes. Federal agents blackmail him into helping them take down a corrupt and violent crime boss, Bama McCall (played with oily menace by Jerry Reed). The setting shifts from deep Arkansas to the Georgia swamps, giving the film an atmospheric, Southern gothic feel that Reynolds would return to throughout his career.

As Gator infiltrates Bama’s criminal empire, he quickly finds himself torn between his old habits and his sense of justice. Along the way, he encounters a feisty, idealistic TV reporter, Aggie Maybank (Lauren Hutton), who serves as both a love interest and a moral compass. The stakes rise when Gator’s own family and friends are threatened, forcing him to take a stand against Bama’s cruelty.

As a first-time director, Reynolds shows a knack for blending action and humor, though the film sometimes struggles with tonal consistency. There are moments of genuine tension—especially in the final act—but they are often interrupted by scenes of slapstick comedy or romantic banter that occasionally undercut the film’s darker themes. Still, Reynolds’ charisma shines through, and his chemistry with the supporting cast keeps the film engaging even when the pacing falters.

Jerry Reed, better known for his musical career and later collaborations with Reynolds in Smokey and the Bandit, delivers a chilling performance as the sadistic and charming Bama McCall. Reed’s ability to balance affability with cruelty makes him a memorable villain, and his scenes with Reynolds crackle with tension. Lauren Hutton adds some depth to what could have been a generic love interest role, though her character often feels like she’s from a different film entirely—a more serious drama rather than a swampy action-comedy.

The action sequences in Gator are well-staged, especially the high-speed chases through the backwaters of Georgia. Reynolds was known for his love of fast cars and daring stunts, and he doesn’t disappoint here. The swamp boat chase is a highlight, showcasing Reynolds’ flair for exciting set pieces.

The humor, on the other hand, is hit-or-miss. Some comedic moments—such as Gator’s interactions with bumbling lawmen—feel forced, as if Reynolds was still figuring out his directorial style. Other times, the humor works perfectly, thanks to Reynolds’ effortless charm and natural comedic timing.

While Gator doesn’t quite reach the heights of White Lightning, it remains an entertaining ride, buoyed by Burt Reynolds’ magnetic presence and Jerry Reed’s villainous turn. The film blends crime drama, action, and Southern-fried humor into a stew that’s occasionally over-seasoned but still enjoyable.

For fans of Reynolds, Gator is a must-watch, showcasing both his on-screen persona and his first attempt at directing. It may not be his most polished work, but it’s an essential chapter in the Burt Reynolds legend—a film filled with fast boats, tough guys, and plenty of swampy charm. If you’re in the mood for a breezy, beer-and-popcorn kind of movie with a ‘70s vibe, Gator is worth a watch.