Cockfighter (or "Born to Kill") takes place in the Deep South of the USA, in the small, underground world of illegal cockfighting. Frank Mansfield is a lonely guy who lives for his passion. After losing his best cock in an impulsive bet, he takes a vow of silence until he has won the medal for Cockfighter of the Year. Frank travels to the lost corners of Georgia, working for his own personal redemption and increasingly trying to win over the girl of his dreams. Hellman and his cinematographer Nestor Almendros delve into the landscape of small towns, gas stations and the deserted ruins of Georgia. They paint a realistic portrait of a clandestine sub-culture. The film was released in drive-ins (amidst protests by animal welfare organizations) but never saw much success with US audiences. In Europe, however, Cockfighter has been shown in multiple festivals and was even named one of the best films of the year. An absolute must for fans of Warren Oates, who delivers an incredible performance.