Convoy (1978) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Convoy (1978) is an action-packed road film directed by Sam Peckinpah, known for his gritty Westerns and intense action sequences. Based on the popular country song of the same name by C.W. McCall, Convoy taps into the cultural phenomenon of CB radio, trucker culture, and the anti-authoritarian spirit of the 1970s. Starring Kris Kristofferson, Ali MacGraw, and Ernest Borgnine, the film takes viewers on a high-octane journey across the American highways as a group of truckers band together to fight against corrupt law enforcement. In this review, we’ll explore the plot, critical reception, and where you can stream Convoy online in the U.S.
Plot Summary of Convoy
The film centers around Martin “Rubber Duck” Penwald (Kris Kristofferson), a cool and rebellious long-haul trucker who becomes the unlikely leader of a massive convoy of truckers traveling across the Southwestern United States. Trouble starts when Rubber Duck and his fellow truckers clash with the corrupt Sheriff “Dirty Lyle” Wallace (Ernest Borgnine), who extorts and harasses truck drivers along his stretch of highway.
What begins as a routine conflict quickly escalates when Rubber Duck and his friends Pig Pen (Burt Young) and Spider Mike (Franklyn Ajaye) fight back against Sheriff Lyle’s abuses of power. The confrontation leads to a high-speed chase, and soon, the truckers find themselves at the center of a larger movement. Rubber Duck becomes a symbol of resistance, and as more truckers join the convoy, the group grows into a force that authorities can no longer ignore.
Along the way, the truckers are pursued by law enforcement and the National Guard as they head toward the Mexican border in a dramatic showdown. The convoy, which started as an act of defiance, becomes a symbol of solidarity and rebellion against government overreach, drawing widespread attention from the public and media.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, Convoy received mixed reviews from critics, but it found an enthusiastic audience among fans of action films and trucker culture. Critics noted that the film’s plot was somewhat thin, with the story often taking a backseat to the action sequences and spectacle. However, Kris Kristofferson’s portrayal of Rubber Duck was praised for its charismatic, laid-back charm, and Ernest Borgnine’s performance as the villainous Sheriff Lyle added a menacing edge to the film.
Director Sam Peckinpah, known for his violent and stylistic approach to filmmaking, brought his signature style to Convoy. Though the film’s tone was lighter and more comedic than Peckinpah’s previous works, it still featured his trademark slow-motion action sequences and chaotic set pieces. The film’s visual style and the sense of momentum created by the rolling convoy of trucks helped make Convoy a visually engaging film, even if it lacked the depth of Peckinpah’s earlier films like The Wild Bunch (1969) and Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid (1973).
Despite the criticism, Convoy became a commercial success, grossing over $45 million worldwide. Its popularity was largely driven by the cultural appeal of trucker culture in the 1970s, which was also reflected in hit songs, CB radio trends, and a growing fascination with life on the open road. Over time, Convoy has developed a cult following, particularly among fans of action films, trucker movies, and Sam Peckinpah’s directorial style.
Why Convoy Is Worth Watching
Convoy is more than just a simple road movie—it captures the rebellious spirit of the 1970s and offers an entertaining glimpse into the trucker subculture that fascinated America at the time. The film’s themes of freedom, solidarity, and standing up against authority still resonate today, making it relevant beyond its era. For fans of car chases, high-speed action, and large-scale stunt work, Convoy delivers plenty of excitement with its impressive set pieces and tense showdowns.
Kris Kristofferson’s portrayal of the stoic and cool Rubber Duck is a highlight of the film, making him an iconic figure in 70s cinema. His interactions with the tough and unyielding Ernest Borgnine create a strong central conflict that drives the film forward. Meanwhile, the supporting cast, including Ali MacGraw as photographer Melissa and Burt Young as Pig Pen, provides additional humor and heart to the story.
The film’s unique blend of action, comedy, and political commentary also makes Convoy stand out from more straightforward action films. While it may not be the most critically acclaimed of Sam Peckinpah’s works, it remains a fun and entertaining watch that captures a specific moment in American pop culture history.
Where to Watch Convoy Online
If you’re looking to watch Convoy (1978) online in the U.S., you’ll find it available on several streaming platforms, both for subscription streaming and for rent or purchase on-demand. Here are some of the best options for watching Convoy online:
1. Streaming on Subscription Platforms
- Tubi: Convoy is available to stream for free on Tubi, a popular ad-supported streaming service. Tubi offers a wide selection of classic films, including action movies and cult favorites, making it a great platform for viewers looking to watch Convoy without any upfront cost.
- Peacock: The film is also available on Peacock, NBC’s streaming service, which offers both free and premium subscription options. With a large catalog of movies and TV shows, Peacock is a good choice for viewers who want access to a wide range of content.
2. Rent or Purchase on Demand
For those who prefer to rent or purchase Convoy for a one-time fee, the film is available on several popular on-demand platforms. Here’s where you can rent or buy it online:
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent Convoy on Amazon Prime Video for around $3.99 or purchase it for approximately $9.99. Amazon Prime Video offers high-quality streaming across multiple devices, including smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones.
- Apple iTunes: Convoy is available for rent at $3.99 or purchase for $9.99 on iTunes. This is a convenient option for Apple users who want to stream or download the film to their devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV: On Google Play, Convoy can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $9.99, allowing viewers to watch it on Android devices or Chromecast-enabled TVs.
- YouTube Movies: Available for rent or purchase at the same prices, Convoy can also be streamed directly on YouTube, making it a convenient option for those who prefer watching on the YouTube app or website.
3. Other Streaming Options
- Vudu: Vudu offers Convoy for both rental ($3.99) and purchase ($9.99), with high-quality streaming available across multiple devices.
- Microsoft Store: For users on Windows PCs or Xbox consoles, Convoy is available for rent or purchase through the Microsoft Store, making it easily accessible for Microsoft device users.
Conclusion
Convoy (1978) may not be Sam Peckinpah’s most critically acclaimed film, but it’s an entertaining and action-packed journey that captures the rebellious spirit of the 1970s. With its memorable performances, thrilling action sequences, and celebration of trucker culture, the film has earned its place as a cult classic among fans of road movies and 70s cinema.
Whether you’re a fan of Kris Kristofferson, trucker movies, or simply looking for a fun, nostalgic action film, Convoy is worth checking out. With a variety of streaming and rental options available—ranging from free platforms like Tubi to on-demand services like Amazon Prime and Google Play—it’s easy to watch Convoy online in the U.S.
So, gear up and join the convoy for a wild ride across America’s highways in this 70s classic!
