Sharky's Machine Poster

Sharky's Machine 1981

★ 6.1110 votes122 min📅 1981-12-18

"Nobody leans on Sharky's Machine."

Burt Reynolds stars as Tom Sharky in this gritty 1981 crime thriller directed by the iconic actor himself. Sharky's Machine follows a disgraced Atlanta vice officer who stumbles upon a high-stakes political conspiracy while working undercover in the city's seedy underbelly.

Director: Burt Reynolds

Cast

Burt Reynolds
Burt Reynolds
Tom Sharky
Rachel Ward
Rachel Ward
Domino
Henry Silva
Henry Silva
Billy Score
Brian Keith
Brian Keith
Papa
Vittorio Gassman
Vittorio Gassman
Victor Scorelli
Charles Durning
Charles Durning
Lt. Friscoe
Earl Holliman
Earl Holliman
Donald Hotchkins
Bernie Casey
Bernie Casey
Arch
Richard Libertini
Richard Libertini
Nosh
Darryl Hickman
Darryl Hickman
Smiley

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sharky's Machine (1981) about?

After being demoted to vice work, undercover cop Tom Sharky uncovers a dangerous conspiracy tied to a powerful local politician. His investigation leads him into a web of deceit—and an unexpected romance with a woman he's never met. The film blends crime, drama, and action as Sharky races to expose the truth before it's too late.

Who directed Sharky's Machine?

Burt Reynolds directed the film, bringing his signature charisma and action-hero flair to the screen.

Who stars in Sharky's Machine?

The film features Burt Reynolds in the lead role, alongside Rachel Ward, Henry Silva, Brian Keith, and Vittorio Gassman.

Is Sharky's Machine (1981) worth watching?

As a classic 80s crime thriller, Sharky's Machine offers a compelling mix of suspense, drama, and Reynolds' star power. While it hasn't achieved legendary status, its gritty atmosphere and engaging plot make it a solid pick for fans of the genre.

How long is Sharky's Machine?

Sharky's Machine has a runtime of 122 minutes, offering plenty of action-packed runtime for viewers.

🎥 Trailer

About Sharky's Machine (1981) — A 1980s Crime Thriller with Burt Reynolds at His Best

Burt Reynolds stars as Tom Sharky in this gritty 1981 crime thriller directed by the iconic actor himself. Sharky's Machine follows a disgraced Atlanta vice officer who stumbles upon a high-stakes political conspiracy while working undercover in the city's seedy underbelly. As Sharky pieces together the scandal, he finds himself drawn into a dangerous dance with a mysterious woman, setting the stage for a tale of corruption, obsession, and redemption. Blending raw action with steamy drama, Reynolds crafts a neo-noir atmosphere where every shadow could hide a secret—and every conversation might be a lie.

With its pulsating 80s aesthetic and Burt Reynolds at the helm, Sharky's Machine delivers a gripping narrative packed with suspense, moral ambiguity, and explosive confrontations. The film leans into the era's love for antiheroes, presenting Sharky as a flawed but compelling figure navigating a world where power corrupts and trust is a luxury.