The Scalp Merchant 1978
"The man everyone's trying to kill..."
Set against the rugged, sun-scorched landscapes of the Australian wilderness, *The Scalp Merchant (1978)* follows Cliff Rowan, a lone troubleshooter tasked with retrieving a stolen payroll hidden deep in the hills near his hometown.
Director: Howard Rubie
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Scalp Merchant (1978) about?
Cliff Rowan returns to his Australian hometown to recover a stolen payroll, only to find himself the target of a violent conspiracy. As old friends turn against him and his ally is murdered, Cliff discovers the buried cash hides a far deadlier secret.
Who directed The Scalp Merchant?
Howard Rubie directed *The Scalp Merchant*, crafting a suspenseful mystery steeped in the harsh beauty of the Australian outback.
Who stars in The Scalp Merchant?
The film stars John Waters, Elizabeth Alexander, Cameron Mitchell, and Margaret Nelson in key roles that drive the story forward.
Is The Scalp Merchant (1978) worth watching?
*The Scalp Merchant* is a solid pick for fans of 1970s mysteries and action thrillers, offering tense suspense and a unique Australian setting. While not widely known today, its gritty tone and compelling plot make it a worthwhile watch for genre enthusiasts.
How long is The Scalp Merchant?
The Scalp Merchant has a runtime of 108 minutes.
About The Scalp Merchant (1978) — A Man Hunted in Australia's Rugged Outback
Set against the rugged, sun-scorched landscapes of the Australian wilderness, *The Scalp Merchant (1978)* follows Cliff Rowan, a lone troubleshooter tasked with retrieving a stolen payroll hidden deep in the hills near his hometown. But what begins as a straightforward recovery mission quickly spirals into a web of betrayal and violence, as the entire community turns against him. Directed by Howard Rubie, this 1970s mystery-thriller blends action with a slow-burning sense of dread, as Cliff uncovers that the buried strongbox holds secrets far deadlier than stolen cash. With a tight-knit cast led by John Waters, the film captures the tension of a man hunted by those he once knew, all while navigating a treacherous terrain where every shadow could hide a threat.
As the mystery unfolds, *The Scalp Merchant* explores themes of trust and vengeance, wrapped in the gritty atmosphere of a small town turned hostile. Rubie's direction leans into the isolation of the outback, amplifying the paranoia as Cliff races against time to uncover the truth before the scalps start falling. Featuring a mix of suspense and rugged action, this 1978 TV movie is a hidden gem for fans of old-school mysteries that keep you guessing until the very end.