Back Roads (1981 film)

Back Roads is a 1981 American romantic drama film directed by Martin Ritt and starring Sally Field and Tommy Lee Jones. The film tells the story of Amy Post (Field), a prostitute from Alabama, and Elmore Pratt (Jones), a former professional boxer, who form an unlikely partnership and travel together across the Southern United States in search of a better life.

The plot centers on their journey as they try to find work and make money, facing various challenges and developing a complex relationship. Elmore agrees to drive Amy to California with the promise of money, but their plans are continually disrupted by their circumstances and personal issues. The film explores themes of economic hardship, social alienation, and the search for connection in a marginalized society.

Back Roads received mixed reviews upon its release. While some critics praised the performances of Field and Jones, others found the screenplay to be lacking in depth and originality. The film was a moderate box office success.