Loosely based on an actual person, Steve McQueen is Ralph "Papa" Thorson, a veteran bounty hunter who finds himself targeted by a criminal he once helped put away. As Papa navigates threats, rounds up the wanted and deals with his personal life, the film maintains a balance between action and drama. This doesn't always work well as the character ends up borderline unlikable. But there are a number of very good chases and well placed comic touches. McQueen's iconic cool and charisma shine, even in a less-than-ideal role. A young LeVar Burton is quite good in a small supporting part as a bonus.
In what I can't help but feel is a bit of fun at McQueen's expense, Papa is portrayed as a terrible driver. In chases he also ends up driving a combine harvester, of all things, and a clunky tow truck. McQueen was a legendary gear head that often did his own stunt driving in his films.
"The Hunter" is Steve McQueen's final film and while not one of his strongest, it's definitely worth a view. He died not long after this film's release.
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