Who knew that someone's hanging mashed-up ear could be so hypnotic. After "WALKING TALL", director (Phil Karlson), writer (Mort Brisken) and star actor would reunite again two years later for another beat 'em up, payback crime thriller "FRAMED". Stalwart star Joe Don Baker eases into the role before going on his dogged and calculative rampage. A Tennessee gambler who just happened to score big, later that night unwittingly kills a sheriff under unusual circumstances. His money disappears, it looks like the girlfriend stops caring and he has no choice but to take the plea deal. He spends four years in jail, before getting out on parole thanks to connections inside and returns to wreak havoc on those who framed him. The hard-nosed plot plays out in the same vein as "The Count of Monte Cristo" with pulp noir touches. The mystery of who's behind the corruption is no surprise for the viewer and it's never meant to be, but it's all about trying to unlock the truth of why the set-up. While it's not as action-packed, you do grit your teeth when it does come to blows by feeling the pain and enduring the sweat of some of these nasty encounters and ear splitting yelling. There are two memorable exchanges though that aren't violent, but it's the ballsy banter between Baker and H.B Haggerty that highly amuses. Then there's that train sequence.... wow! A great supporting ensemble cast and location shooting also add immensely to the hardy entertainment.
