Indian sheriff Thunder is transferred to a small town in the desert. He learns that the corrupt deputy is paid by the drug mob. To protect himself, the deputy sets a trap for Thunder and gets him convicted as dealer. Thunder manages to break out of the brutal prison camp and takes bloody revenge. However he cannot sufficiently protect his pregnant wife.

They took his wife... but he's still Walking Tall, they drew First Blood, but he's gonna fight back like Billy Jack.

In Thunder, a Native American Vietnam vet, played by Mark Gregory, returns to his reservation in the southwest. Seeking solace, he starts a reign of terror on the town, determined to avenge the wrongs done to his people. The film showcases themes of racism, exploitation, and revenge.