Dark, threatening, disturbing in spite of the wild beauty of the river, Deliverance is a nightmare delivered within a hostile natural environment.
Four city slickers looking for adventure look to the idea to canoe down the Cahulawassee River before it’s dammed and turned into a lake. Led by the brash arrogance of Lewis (Burt Reynolds – Boogie Nights, Smokey & the Bandits), the men ignore local concerns in their determination. Cultures clash that lead to violence and tragedy as Lewis pushes forward, at whatever the cost, to reach his goal.
Famed for the allegorical duelling banjos scene and, to a lesser extent the rape of Bobby (Ned Beatty – Network, Charlie Wilson’s War), Deliverance is a thrilling albeit hard to take adventure drama expertly directed by John Boorman (Point Blank, Hope and Glory).
Nominated for 3 Oscars in 1973 – best film, director and editing.
Rating: 74%
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