full of actors who don't get enough respect

I think this movie has a great cast across the board. It's full of great actors who I think have never really got the respect the deserve. My favorites --

Ned Beatty first of all, because I think he gives the best performance, bringing nuance and humanity (while still being despicable) to what could have been a stereotypical FSS (Fat Southern Sheriff).

Burt Renolds because his celebrity caused people to overlook that he was a genuinely good actor.

Bo Hopkins because he never got as many great parts as he deserved. I always get excited when I see him in a picture.

R.G. Armstrong for perfectly playing the mix of hate and respect his character has for Gator. He's kind of a Hillbilly version of Don Vito Corleone. "Never go against the family, y'all."

Jennifer Billingsley because she was great in this and never got parts in anything good before or after. She was perfectly cast, just attractive enough to justify Gator going for her while not looking like an out-of-place movie star, leading lady type.

Diane Ladd because she was perfect as always, even though it wasn't much of a part.

And lastly, Louise Latham because she breathed life into what was not really a character at all. Her two scenes wouldn't have been interesting without her.