“The documentary does a lovely job of giving us a snapshot of Appalachian hill culture while telling this unusual story of a man who seems both a hardened criminal and a soft-hearted artist and lover of nature. This film could support studies in art history, particularly folk art, as well as studies of American cultures. Criminal justice classes may also find the film beneficial in its commentary on this historic crime as well as local law enforcement of the time, with its questionable tactics and use of power.”
Educational Media Reviews Online
“A Long Hard Streak is a powerful film. It tells the story of a life with much promise that, because of a propensity for crime, ended badly. It is also the story of a people held together by love of family and community. Beyond that, it is a testament to the power of creativity to overcome the direst of circumstances and environment.”
“Everybody has heard the story but when you look into it, there are so many layers. People like to say he is an outlaw, which he was, but there is so much more to the story.”
“Those who attended (the event supported by Humanities Tennessee) enjoyed a great evening of entertainment and discussion. In the audience was the FBI agent working the case, Cecil Moses, along with a former Morgan County Deputy Sheriff, J.W. Bradley, who worked at the jail when Billy escaped.”