Feels like there's something under the surface of this film.

I understand Hellman's work is way beyond a 'cruel film with real cockfighting scenes'. He is a brilliant director, able to build a movie in an unique way, this single work being a master's task, without any doubts. But it's painful to watch some of these bloody scenes anyway. And yes, I do eat chicken.

Some may avoid this if they find cockfighting unwatchable, as I do, but they are missing a good film. Despite having to look away during numerous fight scenes, the viewing left me satisfied. A companion piece to Two-Lane Blacktop, Cockfighter has the same graceful writing and directing. It surges with testosterone but doesn't overplay the symbolism inherent in its topic. It has Harry Dean Stanton, and the spectacular Warren Oates in the challenging lead role of a cockfighter who doesn't talk.

It is a difficult film to watch for the animal cruelty and morally wrong because of it, but it is a film trying to reach a higher goal. The animal cruelty act preventing the film from being released in the UK is also pointless for a 35+ year old film when it's too late to stop to acts being staged. The film itself is too languid in pace, even at 80 or so minutes, to completely work; despite clear themes to it, it doesn't amass to much.

Unforgivably barbaric, but smart and hauntingly effective in the style of Hellman's Two-Lane Blacktop or Hill's The Driver.

This is a blood and guts art film with unforgettable intensity and stark scenes that few films have managed to capture with such fervor.

Warren Oates, Harry Dean Stanton...and COCKFIGHTING! What more can ya say?

No holds barred film about merciless men and their obsession with one of the sickest form of gambling imaginable. Not for the sensitive animal lover types.

The people responsible for banning this movie in the UK are a bunch of pathetic hypocrites. This isn't ok but wolfing down our factory chickens is ok? I guess they don't like being reminded of the truth.