The Hunter (1980)
Steve McQueen's final film — a gritty, good-humored bounty hunter thriller where the hunter becomes the hunted.
The Hunter - Movie Information
- Original Title: The Hunter
- Release Year: 1980
- Directed by: Buzz Kulik
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Thriller, Action, Comedy
- Age Rating (US): PG
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): August 1, 1980 (United States - PG), December 19, 1980 (Germany - 16), October 17, 1980 (Australia), January 1, 1981 (Brazil - e 14), December 2, 1980 (Italy - VM14)
- Alternative Titles: Le chasseur (FR), Caçador Implacável - 1980 (BR)
- Production Companies: Paramount Pictures, Rastar Productions
- Production Countries: United States of America
The Hunter - Plot
During his long career, bounty hunter Ralph “Papa” Thorson has caught over 5,000 criminals. Now, while he is working on apprehending fugitives in Illinois, Texas and Nebraska, he himself is being hunted by a psychotic killer.
The Hunter - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see McQueen in action as the legendary Papa Thorson:
He's not as fast as he used to be... That's what makes him human. He's a bounty hunter... And that's what makes him dangerous.
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The Hunter - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Buzz Kulik
Main Cast
- Steve McQueen
- Eli Wallach
- Kathryn Harrold
- LeVar Burton
- Ben Johnson
- Richard Venture
- Tracey Walter
- Thomas Rosales Jr.
- Teddy Wilson
- Bill Hart
Writers
- Ted Leighton
- Peter Hyams
Producers
- Mort Engelberg
The Hunter - FAQs
What is The Hunter (1980) about?
The Hunter follows Ralph “Papa” Thorson, a veteran bounty hunter who has tracked down more than 5,000 fugitives over his career. While pursuing criminals across Illinois, Texas, and Nebraska, he discovers that a dangerous, psychotic killer has turned the tables and is now hunting him.
Was The Hunter Steve McQueen's final film?
Yes, The Hunter was Steve McQueen's last film. He died of cancer on November 7, 1980, just three months after the movie's August release. It's a bittersweet farewell — McQueen brings real warmth and grit to the role of the aging, lovably old-fashioned Papa Thorson.
Where can you stream or rent The Hunter (1980)?
You can rent or buy The Hunter on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. It's also available to watch for free on Hoopla, making it easy to catch McQueen's final performance without spending a dime.
Is The Hunter based on a true story?
It is! The film is based on the real life of Ralph “Papa” Thorson, one of America's most prolific bounty hunters. Christopher Keane wrote a book about Thorson's exploits, which served as the basis for the screenplay. The real Thorson even has a cameo in the film as a bartender.
Who are the main actors in The Hunter?
Steve McQueen leads the cast as Ralph “Papa” Thorson, supported by Eli Wallach as his friend Ritchie Blumenthal and Kathryn Harrold as his pregnant girlfriend Dotty. LeVar Burton and Ben Johnson round out the key supporting roles, giving the film a strong ensemble feel.
Does The Hunter mix action with humor?
Absolutely. The film blends action and comedy in a way that feels very much in tune with McQueen's laid-back charisma. Thorson is portrayed as endearingly clumsy and old-fashioned — he can't drive a modern car without crashing it — which gives the film a lighter, more human touch alongside the thrills.
Who directed The Hunter and who composed the score?
Buzz Kulik directed the film, working from a screenplay by Ted Leighton and Peter Hyams. The score was composed by Michel Legrand, the acclaimed French composer known for his lush, melodic style. Legrand's music adds an unexpectedly warm and emotional undercurrent to the action.
How was The Hunter received by critics?
Critical reception was mixed. Many reviewers found the film uneven but agreed that McQueen's natural screen presence elevates the material. The movie holds a nostalgic charm today, largely because it captures McQueen at his most relaxed and human — a fitting, if imperfect, send-off for a Hollywood legend.
More About The Hunter
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