The 5 Best Movies About Rednecks and Hillbillies (& Why You Should Watch Them)
Rednecks and hillbillies are often stereotyped as ignorant, violent, and inbred people who live in the rural areas of the United States. However, these labels are not only offensive and inaccurate but also overlook the rich culture, history, and humor of these communities. Movies about rednecks and hillbillies can challenge our prejudices and show us a different perspective of life in the backwoods and the outback. This is why we decided to put down this list of best movies about rednecks and hillbillies.
1. ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ (2005)
What it’s about: ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ (2005) is an action-comedy film based on the popular television series of the same name that aired from 1979 to 1985. The story follows the Duke family, primarily cousins Bo (Seann William Scott) and Luke (Johnny Knoxville) Duke, who live in the fictional Hazzard County. The Dukes are known for their love of fast cars, particularly their iconic orange 1969 Dodge Charger named the General Lee.
Why you should watch it: ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ is the perfect movie for fans of the original show. It has fast cars, stunts, and humor while serving as a cultural touchstone. What’s not to love?
2. ‘Tucker and Dale vs Evil’ (2010)
What it’s about: The film opens with a reporter and cameraman’s murder, then rewinds to three days prior. A group of college kids on a camping trip in West Virginia encounters well-meaning hillbillies Tucker and Dale, who have just bought a rundown cabin. Due to misunderstandings, the college kids, led by Chad, perceive Tucker and Dale as dangerous. As Tucker and Dale attempt to fix up their cabin, the college kids, unaware of the hillbillies’ good intentions, believe they are being abducted when one of their friends is saved from drowning by Tucker and Dale.
Why you should watch it: There are a lot of movies out there that use misunderstanding as a plot device, but ‘Tucker and Dale vs Evil’ is genuinely funny movie, and exceptionally cleverly made when you take into account the basic premise.
3. ‘Southern Comfort’ (1981)
What it’s about: The story revolves around a group of National Guardsmen on a routine training exercise in the Louisiana Bayou. The soldiers, most of whom are unfamiliar with the local terrain and culture, find themselves in a tense and dangerous situation. As they go through the swampy wilderness, the Guardsmen make a critical error by stealing canoes from the Cajun locals. This seemingly innocent act sets off a chain of events that escalates into a deadly conflict between the Guardsmen and the vengeful Cajuns.
Why you should watch it: ‘Souther Comfort’ is not a comedy but rather a thriller movie with a magnificent portrayal of Louisiana Bayou. It has themes of survival and resilience and, in a few scenes, crosses into the territory of a psychological thriller.
4. ‘The Hills Have Eyes’ (1997-2007)
What it’s about: The Carter family, on a vacation to Los Angeles, stops at Fred’s Oasis in Nevada. Despite Fred’s warnings to stay on the main road, they dismiss him as crazy. Shortly after, they get startled near Nellis Air Force Range, causing a crash. The family’s dogs become agitated, with one running off into the hills. Bobby discovers the mutilated body of the dog, gets frightened, runs, and knocks himself unconscious.
Why you should watch it: This is an entire series of horror movies, so don’t stop at the first (or latest) installment. The setting in the isolated desert and the threat from mutated rednecks create quite an eerie atmosphere, heightening the overall horror experience.
5. ‘Winter’s Bone’ (2010)
What it’s about: In the rural Ozarks of Missouri, seventeen-year-old Ree Dolly takes on the responsibility of caring for her mentally ill mother and younger siblings. The family is struggling financially, and Ree’s father, Jessup, has been absent after being arrested for meth manufacturing. Sheriff Baskin informs Ree that if Jessup doesn’t appear for his court date, they’ll lose their home. Determined to find her father, Ree begins her search, starting with her meth-addicted uncle Teardrop.
Why you should watch it: I’ve figured since I have thrillers and comedies on this list, it would be nice to add drama as well. The film captures the harsh realities of rural life, poverty, and survival in a way that feels authentic and raw. Ree’s story about finding her father and fighting for her siblings is also pretty much relatable for the majority of people despite the movie providing a window into a specific cultural setting.
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