The Onion Field
1979, English. Directed by Harold Becker.
What happened in the onion field is true. But the real crime is what happened after.
An LA police officer is murdered in the onion fields outside of Bakersfield. However, legal loopholes could keep his kidnappers from receiving justice, and his partner is haunted by overwhelming survivor's guilt.
- Runtime
- 2h 2m
- Post-credits
- None listed
- Language
- English
- Rated
- R
Start now and it ends at ….
Popcorn Flick
Fun if you don’t overthink it.
6.0/10 from 124 TMDB viewer ratings.
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Where to watch The Onion Field
The Onion Field is streaming on BFI Player in India.
BFI Player Amazon ChannelAvailability in India as of 10 November 2026. Streaming data by JustWatch.
Cast & crew
- Harold BeckerDirector
- John SavageKarl Hettinger
- James WoodsGregory Powell
- Franklyn SealesJimmy Smith
- Ted DansonIan Campbell
- Ronny CoxPierce Brooks
- David HuffmanDistrict Attorney Phil Halpin
- Christopher LloydJailhouse Lawyer
- Dianne HullHelen Hettinger (as Diane Hull)
- Priscilla PointerChrissie Campbell
- Beege BarketteGreg's Woman
- Richard HerdBeat Cop
- Le TariEmmanuel McFadden
Details
- Released
- 9 September 1979
- Country
- United States of America
- Written by
- Joseph Wambaugh
Check ratings elsewhere
News & fan talk
What The Onion Field is based on
The Onion Field is based on a true story.
Source details from Wikidata and TMDB.
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The Onion Field: quick answers
Is The Onion Field worth watching?
Our verdict is Popcorn Flick: Fun if you don’t overthink it. It scores 6.0/10 from 124 TMDB viewer ratings.
How long is The Onion Field?
The Onion Field runs 122 minutes (2h 2m).
Does The Onion Field have a post-credits scene?
None is listed for The Onion Field. Viewers tag these on TMDB, so a brand-new film may not be tagged yet.
The Onion Field parents guide: is it suitable for kids?
The Onion Field is rated R in India. Check the rating guidance before watching with young children.
Which OTT platform is The Onion Field on?
The Onion Field is streaming on BFI Player in India. (Checked 10 November 2026.)
What movies are like The Onion Field?
If you liked The Onion Field, try Righteous Kill, Blindfire, True Believer.
Who directed The Onion Field?
The Onion Field (1979) was directed by Harold Becker and stars John Savage, James Woods, Franklyn Seales.
What is The Onion Field based on?
The Onion Field is based on a true story.