I've seen this film about 17 times and I never tire of it. It's not only classic gritty 70's cinema, but it's probably Bronson's best movie as lead actor. Well directed by Walter Hill, who also directed classics like The Warriors and 48 hours. Hill brings the depression and New Orleans in the 30's to vivid life. The acting is spot-on, and personally I think this is Bronson's best performance, as well we have James Coburn who hams it up to classic measure. Struther Martin is simply perfect in his role as Poe as well. There is a lot of superbly crafted fist fighting scenes that are some of the very best I can remember ever seeing, and the film is just plain classic 70's cinema, laying somewhere between B film and Big budget 70's movies. This movie is one of those little miracles that comes along once in a long time. Bronson was just great in this as a bare knuckle boxer who seems tough as nails and merciless, but who really has a heart of gold. By the end of the film there's a beautiful message about the bonds of friendship that we can all learn a lesson from. So I've seen it many times and the film still captivates me every time I see it. It's classic Bronson and well worth seeing!!!