Is Fighting Mad Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Fighting Mad is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 90 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Fighting Mad Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1976, Fighting Mad enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on An evil corporation tries to pressure a bunch of Arkansas farmers and ranchers to sell their land so they can strip-mine it for coal. Under the direction of Jonathan Demme, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Peter Fonda, Gino Franco, Harry Northup. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Fighting Mad offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Fighting Mad resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, Fighting Mad is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Fighting Mad centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. An evil corporation tries to pressure a bunch of Arkansas farmers and ranchers to sell their land so they can strip-mine it for coal. The fiercely proud and stubborn Hunter family refuse to give in. This leads to a bitter conflict that results in several casualties. Eventually the take-charge no-nonsense Tom Hunter exacts a harsh revenge on the villains with the help of his bow and arrow. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1976 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Fighting Mad has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Fighting Mad sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Fighting Mad (1976): with an audience rating of 4.8/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Drama, Action, Crime cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Fighting Mad Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $600,000 |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Fighting Mad Budget
The estimated production budget for Fighting Mad is $600,000. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Fighting Mad is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.8/10, and global collection metrics, Fighting Mad stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1976 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fighting Mad movie hit or flop?
Fighting Mad is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.8/10 and lower collections.
Is Fighting Mad worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.8/10, Fighting Mad may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is Fighting Mad?
Fighting Mad is a Drama, Action, Crime movie that An evil corporation tries to pressure a bunch of Arkansas farmers and ranchers to sell their land so they can strip-mine it for coal. The fiercely pro...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Fighting Mad movie hit or flop?
Fighting Mad is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.8/10 and lower collections.
Is Fighting Mad worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.8/10, Fighting Mad may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is Fighting Mad?
Fighting Mad is a Drama, Action, Crime movie that An evil corporation tries to pressure a bunch of Arkansas farmers and ranchers to sell their land so they can strip-mine it for coal. The fiercely pro...
Is Fighting Mad family friendly?
Fighting Mad may not be suitable for all family members as it contains Drama, Action, Crime elements. Parental guidance is recommended.
Where can I watch Fighting Mad?
You can find streaming options and availability for Fighting Mad on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of Fighting Mad?
Fighting Mad features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
How long is the movie Fighting Mad?
The runtime and duration of Fighting Mad are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
**_Land developers vs. rural property owners in Arkansas_** A man returns from the big city to his traditional family ranch in northwest Arkansas (Peter Fonda), only to discover that a determined land developer (Philip Carey) is buying up land nearby for strip mining and, of course, wants his dad’s ranch. When beloved citizens turn-up dead, the kid gloves are off. “Fighting Mad” (1976) comes in the tradition of “Walking Tall” and would influence “First Blood” six years later. Car crash movies from the 70s are also comparable, like Fonda’s own “Dirty Mary Crazy Larry.” This is the least of ’em, however, because the dramatics are curiously boring and needed a rewrite to flush out the potential, but it’s still worth catching if you like Peter and these types of flicks. The best parts are the vehicular mayhem and the closing confrontation at the castle-like manor of the tycoon. It runs 1 hour, 30 minutes, and was shot in Washington County, Arkansas, and the corresponding town of Springdale, which are in the northwest corner of the state. The jail scenes were shot in the studio in Los Angeles. GRADE: B-