If you're a fan of the gritty, action-packed thriller 'Gator' (1976), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same blend of Southern charm, crime drama, and high-stakes action. Whether you love the charismatic antihero or the swampy, tension-filled setting, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Thunder Road (1958)
Description: A classic tale of moonshine runners in the South evading federal agents, featuring intense car chases and a anti-authoritarian protagonist.
Fact: Robert Mitchum not only starred in but also co-wrote and composed the theme song for this film. It was inspired by actual moonshine runners he met while growing up.


Bullitt (1968)
Description: Revolutionary car chase sequences through urban environments and a cool, determined protagonist working outside the system to achieve justice.
Fact: The famous 10-minute chase scene took three weeks to film and used two identical Mustangs. It's considered one of the most influential car chases in cinema history.


Duel (1971)
Description: A tense thriller about an ordinary man pursued by a mysterious, relentless foe, featuring extended chase sequences and themes of survival.
Fact: Steven Spielberg's first feature-length film was originally made for TV but received a theatrical release due to its quality. The truck was chosen specifically for its 'face-like' front end.


The French Connection (1971)
Description: Gritty crime drama featuring one of cinema's most famous car chases and a determined lawman pursuing criminals through urban streets.
Fact: The famous chase scene was filmed without permits in real New York City traffic. A pedestrian was actually hit by a car during filming (though not seriously injured).


The Getaway (1972)
Description: A crime thriller featuring a desperate couple on the run through rural Texas, with intense action sequences and themes of survival against the system.
Fact: The film features one of cinema's most famous train station shootouts. It was originally supposed to be directed by Sam Peckinpah but he was fired and replaced.


Walking Tall (1973)
Description: A tough protagonist takes on corrupt officials in rural America, featuring violent confrontations and a strong anti-establishment theme.
Fact: Based on the real-life story of sheriff Buford Pusser, whose war against organized crime inspired multiple films. The original film was made for just $500,000 but earned over $23 million.


White Lightning (1973)
Description: A gritty Southern crime drama featuring fast cars, moonshine running, and a rebellious protagonist fighting against corrupt law enforcement.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Arkansas and features authentic moonshine-running stunts. It was one of Burt Reynolds' early leading roles that helped establish his 'good ol' boy' persona.


Dirty Mary Crazy Larry (1974)
Description: High-speed car chases and a rebellious spirit dominate this action film about outlaws on the run from authorities in rural America.
Fact: The film's famous crash sequence was achieved by launching a car 135 feet through the air at 55 mph. It became a cult classic for its nihilistic ending.


The Sugarland Express (1974)
Description: A desperate couple on the run from law enforcement through rural Texas, featuring extended car chase sequences and themes of rebellion.
Fact: This was Steven Spielberg's first theatrical feature film. The story was loosely based on a real-life 1969 police chase in Texas.


The Dukes of Hazzard (1979)
Description: Southern-fried car chases and rebellious protagonists evading corrupt authorities in modified vehicles, with plenty of high-speed action.
Fact: The General Lee jump stunts became so famous that the show's crew held the record for most cars destroyed during production for many years.
