Episode 117 - Jacked Up

Happy New Year and welcome back to the cave!  We have wanted to look at the Billy Jack series of films since before the podcast started, and it seemed like the 117th episode was a perfect place to finally do it! These are legendary low-budget movies and there is no question why...they are great! We start off with 1967's The Born Losers and follow that up with the masterpiece Billy Jack from 1971. Both films were directed by and star Tom Laughlin as Mr. Jack ( he directed both under the pseudonym T.C. Frank ).  There is a kinetic energy, and a vibrating core of danger in both films, with some amazing cinematography and powerful dialogue. Calling these "message films" is valid but the messages are relayed with such a high degree of craft that they rarely seem preachy. Both are fascinating studies of the 60's and 70's counter-culture movement, from within and without.  Mostly-excellent acting and some stirring music really round-out the packages and now we find ourselves eager to watch the 3rd and 4th films in the Billy Jack canonSend us your thoughts on the show and recommendations for future episodes to [email protected] or [email protected]. You can also reach us on Facebook, Instagram, Letterboxd. YouTube.