The Gauntlet Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A boozy cop gets a sassy hooker from Vegas, but oops, everyone wants them dead, so they take a bus to get literally shot to pieces…it’s a metaphor for their feelings, probably.

🍿 The Gauntlet: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Assignment in Las Vegas

Detective Ben Shockley, a down-on-his-luck Phoenix cop, is assigned a seemingly simple task: escorting a witness, Gus Mally, from Las Vegas to Phoenix for a minor trial. Shockley, believing this is a routine job, is unaware of the danger that awaits him. He views it as an easy way to redeem himself within the department. Upon arriving in Las Vegas, Shockley discovers that Gus Mally is a tough and intelligent prostitute with a college degree. Mally warns him that powerful forces are determined to prevent her from testifying, but Shockley initially dismisses her concerns. However, he quickly learns that she is about to testify against a powerful mobster.

Betrayal and Conspiracy

As Shockley and Mally prepare to leave Las Vegas, they quickly become targets of assassination attempts. Their transport is bombed, and Mally’s house is riddled with bullets, forcing them to flee. Shockley realizes that he has been set up and that someone within the police department is working against him. Trusting no one, Shockley hijacks a police car and heads towards the Arizona border with Mally. They are pursued by both the mafia and corrupt police officers, turning their journey into a desperate fight for survival. Shockley becomes increasingly determined to protect Mally and expose the conspiracy.

The Armored Bus

With the odds stacked against them, Shockley and Mally decide to take drastic measures. They hijack a bus and transform it into an armored vehicle, welding steel plates to the exterior for protection. They plan to drive through Phoenix and reach the courthouse, exposing the corruption within the police department. As they approach Phoenix, Shockley and Mally face a gauntlet of police officers armed with heavy weapons. The bus becomes a target of intense gunfire, but Shockley manages to navigate through the barrage. The climax of the film depicts their desperate attempt to reach the courthouse alive.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Det. Ben Shockley (Clint Eastwood): An alcoholic, mediocre Phoenix detective assigned to escort a witness, only to uncover a web of corruption and fight for survival.
• Augustina ‘Gus’ Mally (Sondra Locke): A college-educated prostitute who is a key witness in a mob trial and becomes Shockley’s unlikely ally.
• Commissioner Blakelock (William Prince): The corrupt Chief Commissioner who orchestrates the attempts on Shockley and Mally’s lives.
• Det. Maynard Josephson (Pat Hingle): Shockley’s partner who becomes a victim of the corruption when tries to help him.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Ben Shockley: “On a scale of one to ten, I’d have to give her a two, and that’s because I haven’t seen a one before.” – Shockley’s initial dismissive assessment of Gus reflects his low expectations and prejudices.
• Gus Mally: “You know, you’re not as dumb as you look.” – Gus acknowledges Shockley’s resilience and resourcefulness as they face danger.
• Ben Shockley: “What are you so afraid of?” – Question directed to Gus Mally as they discuss their chances.
• Gus Mally: “That’s the difference between you and me, Shockley. I always figure the odds.” – Gus’s cynical pragmatism contrasts with Shockley’s initially naive outlook.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $5,500,000
• Domestic Gross: $26,414,658
• Worldwide Gross: $26,414,658

💥 The Gauntlet Reviews

Personal Review

I remember watching this as a kid and being blown away by the bus scene! It’s so ridiculously over-the-top, but that’s what makes it fun. Eastwood and Locke have great chemistry, and while the plot is silly, it’s a perfect popcorn movie. Definitely a guilty pleasure of mine. I enjoy it more than I should. I do think the bus scene is one for the ages. All of those police men firing what seems like thousands of rounds. It’s so over the top but so fun! The soundtrack really adds to the tension and keeps you on the edge of your seat.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Clint Eastwood”
  • “Viewers who enjoy action thrillers”
  • “People who appreciate over-the-top action sequences”
  • “Those interested in crime and corruption stories”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Intense violence and gun battles”
  • “Strong language”
  • “Brief sexual assault scene”

Professional Reviews

• Film Stories: “News that a Tom Cruise-headlined remake is set for a 2025 shoot suggests ‘The Gauntlet’s’ enduring appeal. Eastwood’s action-packed road trip still resonates, showcasing gritty realism and over-the-top stunts that defined 70s cinema.
• Rotten Tomatoes: “While some find it cartoonish and absurd, ‘The Gauntlet’ delivers as a thrilling action flick. Eastwood’s direction shines in the chaotic shootouts, supported by the chemistry between him and Sondra Locke.
• IMDB user review: “Eastwood’s charm and the razor-sharp dialogue keep it moving along. You end up almost believing it could happen. Clint Eastwood is that talented. His acting and direction are as good as ever.

Audience Reactions

The insane bus scene is legendary for its sheer volume of bullets.: Viewers love the over-the-top action and the unlikely pairing of Eastwood and Locke.

Great movie, great performances by all the actors. A must-see.: A classic Eastwood film that never gets old.

Overall Consensus: A flawed but entertaining action flick with memorable moments and a strong dose of 70s grit.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Over 8,000 rounds of ammunition were fired during the climactic shootout scene.”
• “The film explores themes of corruption and redemption, challenging traditional notions of law enforcement.”
• “Sondra Locke’s character, Gus Mally, was written as a complex female lead, defying stereotypes often found in action films of the era.”
• “Although violence is heavily featured, the film also examines the evolving relationship and grudging respect between the two main characters.”
• “The storyline blends action elements with social commentary, and critiques blind faith in authority figures and institutions.”

🖥️ How to Watch The Gauntlet?

The Gauntlet can be streamed and purchased on various platforms. Check streaming services like Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu, and Google Play Movies for rental or purchase options. Availability may vary depending on your region. Look for special features, behind-the-scenes content, and commentary tracks when purchasing.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Gauntlet, you might like these similar films:

• Midnight Run (1988): Features a bounty hunter tasked with bringing in a seemingly simple target, only to face increasing danger and corruption.
• Dirty Harry (1971): Another Clint Eastwood film, it showcases a lone cop battling corruption and taking justice into his own hands.
• The Driver (1978): Also from the same era, this shows a similar no-nonsense tone.
• Assault on Precinct 13 (1976): Thematic similarities with group defending place, also from same era.
• 16 Blocks (2006): A modern equivalent where a washed-up cop must protect a witness against corrupt forces.

🛒 The Gauntlet Related Products

• Clint Eastwood: 40 Film Collection [Blu-ray]: A must-have for any Eastwood fan. This collection contains most of his films. The Gauntlet is included in this massive collection.
• Clint Eastwood Signed Movie Photo – The Gauntlet – Autographed Collectible: A rare, autographed photo of Clint Eastwood from ‘The Gauntlet’. Ideal for collectors.
• The Gauntlet (1977) – Original Movie Poster: Own a piece of movie history with this original poster from the film’s release.
• Unofficial The Gauntlet T-Shirt – Police Bus Movie Shirt: Show your love for the movie with this custom-designed t-shirt. Great for casual wear.

🎧 Soundtrack

The Gauntlet features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Just A Closer Walk with Thee” – performed by Traditional
• “Main Title” – performed by Jerry Fielding
• “Vegas” – performed by Jerry Fielding

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Frazetta, Eastwood, and The Gauntlet

Did you know Clint Eastwood personally commissioned Frank Frazetta, the legendary fantasy artist, to create the poster for The Gauntlet? This video dives into that fascinating collaboration – honestly, it’s pretty cool to see how different art forms come together!

Clint Eastwood rousting the bikers in The Gauntlet (1977)

Remember that epic biker scene from The Gauntlet? It was definitely one of my favorite parts. Check out this clip for some classic Clint Eastwood action!

✨ Rate