Coward Of The County

"Coward of the County," released in 1981, is a rich American drama set in the heart of rural Georgia. Starring the charismatic musician-tuned-actor Kenny Rogers, this austerity-packed film conveys a potent reflection about honor, bravery, and the will to stand for what's right, even when the odds seem overwhelmingly against you.

Kenny Rogers, already a country music sensation by this time, captures the essence of his character Lucas (Luke) Baker admirably. Luke is the quiet and kindhearted uncle of young Tommy Spencer, a character brilliantly portrayed by Fredric Lehne. Tommy's father (Luke's brother) passes away during Tommy's infancy, leaving him to be raised by his loving but somewhat overprotective Uncle Luke. Luke instills in Tommy a wisdom learned from his own days of feuding and fighting - to believe in the strength of peace over violence, and to avoid trouble whenever he can, marking him as the 'coward of the county.'

Largo Woodruff plays the role of Becky, Tommy's love interest, beautifully crafting her character as the loving, supportive, and self-assured woman in Tommy's life. As the narrative moves forward, Tommy’s loyalty towards his uncle’s teachings and his love for Becky are continuously tested, highlighting the essential contrast between his peaceful upbringing and the brutal realities of the world.

Shot against the backdrop of breathtaking rural landscapes, the film impeccably captures the atmosphere and culture of the southern region of the United States during the late 70s. Even as the tranquility of these landscapes provides a striking visual treat, the undercurrent of violence and power struggle within the story adds layers of complexity to the narrative. Right from the small-town gossip to the local bar scenes, everything pulses with an authenticity that is hard to deny.

The storytelling in "Coward of the County" is intense and engaging. It creates a beautiful balance between the gritty realities of small-town life and the personal dilemmas faced by the main characters. The script, penned by Lewis Colick and Ernest Tidyman, remarkably brings to the screen the interplay between the relentless challenges thrown by life and the pursuit of peaceful existence by the characters.

Kenny Rogers adds another feather to his cap, beyond his illustrious music career, with an equally resonating performance as an actor. His portrayal of Luke is both measured and intense, playing the part of a caring uncle and a troubled man with a past impeccably. Fredric Lehne, as the young Tommy, brings to the fore a wide range of emotions from youthful reality to marked boldness. Largo Woodruff, as Becky, is not merely the love interest of Tommy, but a strong beacon of hope and belief.

Director Dick Lowry, known for his work in TV movies of the 80s, helms the ship of "Coward of the County" confidently, blending elements from a diverse range of genres – from drama to romance to action. Lowry delivers a well-rounded film that allows the viewers to connect with all aspects of the story while keeping them engaged in the plot. There's a subtlety to his storytelling technique that is both refreshing and engrossing.

Harold Sylvester, Diane Ladd, and William Schreiner, among others, back up the leading trio commendably, building a compelling array of vibrant characters that add depth and color to the film's narrative. Moreover, every character serves a purpose, and no one feels out of place or unnecessary, weaving a wholesome tale of love, conflict, and personal growth.

Although "Coward of the County" is based on a hit country ballad by Kenny Rogers, it manages to stand on its own as a complete and compelling narrative. From the perfectly paced story to the stunning performances, this film effectively captures the soul of Rogers' song and unfurls the tale with a poet's grace, offering us a beautiful and emotional roller-coaster.

In closing, "Coward of the County" is a thought-provoking exploration of the character of a young man who strives to lead a peaceful life amid the realities of human conflict and violence. It is a film about the exploration of personal identity against societal expectations and a study of the very complex and profound notions of bravery and cowardice, revenge, and forgiveness. It is a must-watch for fans of dramatic storytelling, excellent character development, and, of course, for the lovers of Kenny Rogers' timeless music.