Reviews

They have taken a simple historical fact and made it interesting to watch. In its own way, it is an extension of the factual space films that we have seen, like "Apollo 13". It teaches us about a little known aspect of the space program. I really got to know, and understand, the characters. It's one of those rare occasions when I left the theater knowing the first names of all the major characters, and I felt that I knew them.

When the producers searched for three females to star in "Doc Hooker's Bunch", I was proud that all three were found in my Talent Agency. Both Gaetana Campbell and Danielle Hibbard had extensive stage experience as well as film experience. They both had toured the country in Dinner Theater Productions co-starring with various "names". At the time, Linda Mann was a recent graduate of S.M.U. This was her first "on-screen" appearance. If the film had been produced in Hollywood, probably they would never have had a chance at the roles, although they were excellent as "Doc Hooker's Bunch". But, because the film was made in Texas, in 1976, it did not receive the recognition that it deserved. It is sad that these three very talented actresses were unable to use their starring roles as springboards to additional work. This is not a great film by any standards, but it is enjoyable. Some of the cast were better than others. Dub Taylor, as Doc Hooker, was his normal charming self. His son, Buck Taylor, is a natural cowboy.

I'd love to have a copy of the film in my library.

It moves so fast that it's sometimes difficult to follow. However, it is a very funny and well-directed film. The gunfights and the bloodshed are hilarious because of the absurdity of it all. It is not easy to describe this without giving away the twists and turns that occur. But, even if you were told everything that happens, you need to see it to truly enjoy it.

The one fault that I had with it is that it is very difficult to understand much of the dialogue. It is so quick that the "accents" are hard to sift through. We all speak English, but not exactly in the same way. Go see "Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels".

This is one of those movies that keeps popping into your head. You can't forget the technical work that went behind the scenes. And, there really is a storyline. It's a bit far-fetched at times, but then it's science fiction.

With a cast like this, you know you're in a for a cinematic treat. Patricia Neal should be nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Cookie. But, she is not the only one who turns in a superb performance. The cast is full of familiar faces and Director Robert Altman has pulled every ounce of emotion from each of them. You can identify with each character's feelings. It's that good. I hope that it gets the needed media attention to make it a box office success.