Gator McKlusky (Burt Reynolds) has been convicted of running moonshine whiskey. He is offered a chance of release--if he will serve as an informer and help catch his one-time cohorts. Gator accepts, but only to get out of jail. He has another motive…he believes that the crooked sheriff (Ned Beatty) murdered his younger brother, a civil rights activist. With the help of fellow "informant" (Matt Clark) and a daredevil driver (Bo Hopkins), a few fights and some astonishing stunt-driving chases, Gator will eventually prove his case against the sheriff. A bonus: Gator will also acquire the daredevil driver''s beautiful girlfriend (Jennifer Billingsley). With Louise Latham, Diane Ladd and a young Laura Dern (Diane lad''s real-life daughter) in her film debut. Joseph Sargent directed with his usual skill and zest.