The second sequel , '' The Trial of Billy Jack '' , released in late 1974 , was a huge box office hit , while not registering as quite as big a critical success . It is notable for its casting of Native American icons such as Sacheen Littlefeather and Rolling Thunder , as well as its strong criticism of the Kent State shootings . However , Laughlin 's unique promotion of the film was its real legacy . Unlike most films of the era which opened in only a few cities before gradually spreading across the country , '' The Trial of Billy Jack '' opened in cities nationwide on the same day and commercials were broadcast for it during the national news . This promotion forever changed the way films are marketed and has been called " the first blockbuster . " In 1975 , Laughlin released '' The Master Gunfighter '' , a western set in the 1840s , detailing the plight of the Chumash people . Laughlin grew a full beard for the film and his character fought with both a 12-shot revolver and a samurai sword . Although it did reasonably well at the box office , critics were not pleased with the film
Kent State shootings
Kent State shootings
Tom Laughlin