The article highlights the airing of the 1972 film 'Deliverance' on BBC Four, which has garnered cult status and is described as a 'masterpiece' by fans. The film showcases the talents of Jon Voight, Burt Reynolds, Ned Beatty, and Ronny Cox, who each performed their own stunts in this gripping survival story. The plot follows four urban friends who embark on a canoeing trip in rural Georgia, seeking a break from their everyday lives.

Upon their arrival, the friends encounter hostility from the local inhabitants, leading to a terrifying and violent confrontation in the woods. As they try to navigate their way back amidst the dangers of the natural environment, they are not only threatened by their surroundings but also pursued by a maniac, transforming their adventure into a desperate struggle for survival. The film not only has become a significant piece of cinematic history but was notably preserved by the United States National Film Registry in 2008 for its cultural significance.

Through this rebroadcast, 'Deliverance' not only gets a chance to be re-evaluated by new audiences but also reminds viewers of the film's enduring legacy in representing the themes of nature versus civilization and the raw instincts of survival. Its shocking scenes and profound character development have made it a timeless classic, making it relevant to discussions about thrillers and cinematic storytelling even today.