Review of The Gauntlet (1977) by Compi24 — 11 Apr 2023

This sixth directorial from Clint Eastwood definitely amps things up in terms of the set-pieces and stunts. From a screenwriting and character standpoint, however, there's a whole lot left to be desired.

This feels like a pantomimed version of what Eastwood detractors think all his movies are really like, with Eastwood as the distant, lumbering blunt instrument and Sondra Locke as the mouthy, ultimately incapable love interest.

Any chances of chemistry between these two leads is kneecapped from the start, with their largely transactional — even coincidental — relationship making the ill-advised heel turn towards the romantic about two-thirds of the way through.

It's just all so hokey and contrived. Even the overall conspiracy behind everything is telegraphed far too early on for the audience. Again, the action is to be noted, but beyond that, I can't say this is anywhere near the actor/director's best.

Not even close really.