EDITOR’S NOTE: As the journey through Cannon continues, this week we’re exploring the films of 21st Century Film Corporation, which would be the company that Menahem Golan would take over after Cannon. Formed by Tom Ward and Art Schweitzer in 1971 (or 1976, there are some disputed expert opinions), 21st Century had a great logo and released some wild stuff.

This is the first movie that Fred Williamson would make as Jesse Crowder. He named the character for someone he knew in high school and looked up to, as he wasn’t to be messed with. After playing the role in this, No Way Back, Blind Rage and The Last Fight, the real Crowder threatened to sue. Williamson’s lawyer showed him some phone books and asked him which Crowder he was.

In this film, NYC district attorney Riley (Art Meier) hires our hero to transport mob accountant Finley (Bernard Kuby) to Los Angeles while Crowder both battles killers and sleeps with every woman he meets. I am not even kidding, I have no idea how he’s learned how to fight like he has as all he does is get horizontal.

This is an hour long, has no budget, scenes seem to stretch on forever unless there’s a fight or lovemaking and who cares? Fred is incredible and it has a vibe based on his swagger. If you like him, you’ll like it. He has that kind of magnetic cool that few action heroes do today.

One of four movies directed by Williamson in 1976, this was originally released by Atlas Films and re-released by 21st Century.

You can watch this on Tubi.