Fighting Back Poster

Fighting Back 1982

★ 5.619 votes98 min📅 1982-05-21

"Enough is enough!"

In 1982's gritty urban drama *Fighting Back*, director Lewis Teague crafts a raw tale of resistance as an Italian deli owner in Philadelphia turns vigilante to reclaim his neighborhood from escalating street crime.

Director: Lewis Teague

Cast

Tom Skerritt
Tom Skerritt
John D'Angelo
Patti LuPone
Patti LuPone
Lisa D'Angelo
Michael Sarrazin
Michael Sarrazin
Vince Morelli
Yaphet Kotto
Yaphet Kotto
Ivanhoe Washington
David Rasche
David Rasche
Michael Taylor
Jim Lovelett
Jim Lovelett
Tom Cassidy
Joseph Ragno
Joseph Ragno
Mike Pelyk
Frank Sivero
Frank Sivero
Frank Russo
Pat Cooper
Pat Cooper
Harry Janelli
Donna de Varona
Donna de Varona
Sara Rogers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fighting Back (1982) about?

Fighting Back follows an Italian deli owner in Philadelphia who, fed up with escalating crime and police inaction, rallies a vigilante group to take back his streets. The film explores his transformation from a quiet shopkeeper into a determined leader, confronting local thugs with street-smart tactics and unshakable resolve.

Who directed Fighting Back?

Lewis Teague directed Fighting Back, bringing a sharp eye for urban tension and character-driven action to the 1982 thriller.

Who stars in Fighting Back?

The film stars Tom Skerritt as the deli owner, alongside Patti LuPone, Yaphet Kotto, Michael Sarrazin, and David Rasche.

Is Fighting Back (1982) worth watching?

While *Fighting Back* may not boast a famous reputation, its gripping blend of action, drama, and moral dilemmas makes it a compelling watch for fans of gritty, character-driven thrillers. Teague's direction and Skerritt's performance anchor a story that's more than just raw street violence—it's about the cost of standing up for what's right.

How long is Fighting Back?

Fighting Back has a runtime of 98 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About Fighting Back (1982) — How One Man's War Restored Peace to His Neighborhood

In 1982's gritty urban drama *Fighting Back*, director Lewis Teague crafts a raw tale of resistance as an Italian deli owner in Philadelphia turns vigilante to reclaim his neighborhood from escalating street crime. With an underdog spirit that pulses through every frame, this action-packed thriller dives deep into themes of justice, community defiance, and the fine line between law and vengeance. The film crackles with an unmistakable 1980s energy, blending tense confrontations with moments of quiet determination, all set against the backdrop of a city on edge. Tom Skerritt leads an ensemble cast with magnetic intensity, embodying the frustration of a law-abiding citizen pushed to the breaking point—proving that sometimes, the fight for survival demands more than just standing by.

At its core, *Fighting Back* is a story about ordinary people finding the courage to stand up when institutions fail them. The vibrant cast, including Patti LuPone and Yaphet Kotto, delivers performances that crackle with authenticity, grounding the high-stakes narrative in relatable human emotion. Whether you're drawn by the promise of relentless action or the exploration of moral complexity, this underrated gem delivers a punch-packing experience that lingers long after the credits roll.