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Drama Cult Classic

A black Civil War veteran becomes a relentless bounty hunter on a quest for vengeance in the Old West.

JOSHUA

They should have known better!

1976 · 1h 23m · R · Drama / Thriller / Western · IMDB TMDB

Upon his return from the Civil War, black soldier Joshua finds out that his mother has been murdered by white thugs. Fuelled by an unquenchable thirst for revenge, he becomes a bounty hunter in order to hunt and kill the gang.

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Quick Answer

What is Joshua about?

Joshua is a 1976 American drama, thriller, and western film directed by Larry G. Spangler about a black Union soldier who becomes a bounty hunter to track down the gang that murdered his mother.

Programmer's Pick

Fred Williamson dons the hat and revolver for a cold-blooded vendetta through the wintry West, serving up black cowboy justice the old guard never saw coming. Revenge has never looked this sharp in a six-shooter.

— SassyFlix Programmer

Overview

Returning from the Civil War, Joshua—a black Union soldier—discovers his mother has been brutally murdered by a gang of white outlaws. Driven by loss and a desire for justice, Joshua transforms himself into a bounty hunter, determined to hunt down each member of the gang responsible for her death. Set against the stark landscapes of the post-war American West, the film blends elements of drama, western, and thriller as Joshua’s single-minded pursuit unfolds. The story promises classic genre trappings—gunfights, saloons, and horseback chases—while centering a black anti-hero rarely seen in traditional westerns.

Details & Specs

Director
Larry G. Spangler
Writer
Fred Williamson
Release
1976
Runtime
1h 23m
Country
United States of America
Language
English
Genres
Drama, Thriller, Western
Also Known As
Black Rider, Revenge

Cast & Crew

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Director: Larry G. Spangler Writer: Fred Williamson
Fred Williamson Fred Williamson Joshua Cal Bartlett Cal Bartlett Jed Brenda Venus Brenda Venus Sam's wife Isela Vega Isela Vega Maria BS Bud Stout Rex Henry Kendrick Henry Kendrick Sam RW Ralph Willingham Weasle KJ Kathryn Jackson Martha, Josh's Mom

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Why Cult

Black Western Revenge

The film centers a black anti-hero seeking vengeance after the Civil War—a rarity in westerns of its era.

Fred Williamson Lead

Fred Williamson brings gravitas and grit as Joshua, blending stoicism and intensity in every scene.

Classic Western Showdowns

Expect bar shootouts, saloon brawls, and gunfights galore—delivering all the hallmarks of a gritty western thriller.

Post-War Setting

The aftermath of the Civil War frames a revenge tale with racial tension and harsh frontier justice.

Scene Gallery

Questions from the Vault

When was Joshua released? +

Joshua was released in 1976.

Who directed Joshua? +

Joshua was directed by Larry G. Spangler.

How long is Joshua? +

Joshua has a runtime of 83 minutes.

What genre is Joshua? +

Joshua is a drama, thriller, and western film.

Where can I watch Joshua? +

Joshua is available to stream on SassyFlix.

Trailers & Clips

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