Trial by Combat

Synopsis

Trial by Combat is a 1976 action-packed drama centered around a former Vietnam War veteran named Robert Wallach who is wrongfully accused of a crime he didn't commit. Determined to clear his name, Wallach finds himself amid a gritty urban environment where corruption and violence run rampant. To fight the unjust legal system and the dangerous forces against him, he accepts a brutal challenge known as a trial by combat, a deadly form of vigilante justice. The film blends intense martial arts sequences with a raw portrayal of individual resilience in a hostile world, highlighting themes of honor, survival, and redemption.

Cast

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  John Mills

  Colonel Bertie Cook

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  Donald Pleasence

  Sir Giles Marley

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  Barbara Hershey

  Marion Evans

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  David Birney

  Sir John Gifford

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  Peter Cushing

  Sir Edward Gifford

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  Margaret Leighton

  Ma Gore

Reviews

Trial by Combat has garnered mixed reviews from both critics and audiences since its release. On IMDb, it holds a modest rating of 5.2/10, indicating a divided response among viewers. Some praise the film for its straightforward and gritty action scenes, with Wallach's performance providing a compelling portrayal of determination. However, others criticize the film for its somewhat dated production values and a predictable plot. Rotten Tomatoes does not have an official critic score for the movie, reflecting its status as a lesser-known cult film rather than a mainstream hit. Audience reviews highlight the film's action choreography and its raw, no-frills approach, but also note that the pacing can be uneven and character development is minimal. Metacritic does not have a recorded score for this title, likely due to its obscurity and age. Overall, Trial by Combat appeals primarily to fans of classic 70s action films and martial arts enthusiasts who appreciate a straightforward revenge tale, though it might not resonate as strongly with wider audiences looking for complex storytelling or high production quality.