The 1970s ushered in a new era of cinema with blaxploitation movies. This unique genre featured black actors and actresses in leading roles and told stories that were relevant to the African American community. While the quality of these films varied, they all showcased the talents and creativity of black filmmakers and actors. Here are some of the most iconic blaxploitation movies of all time:
Shaft
Shaft is one of the most iconic blaxploitation movies of all time. Released in 1971, the film stars Richard Roundtree as John Shaft, a private detective who is looking to take down a crime syndicate. Along the way, he teams up with some unlikely allies and uses his smarts and streetwise tactics to take down the bad guys. Shaft is known for its powerful depictions of black characters and its action-packed plot. The film was a critical and commercial success and spawned a sequel, Shaft’s Big Score!
Superfly
Superfly is another iconic blaxploitation movie that was released in 1972. The film stars Ron O’Neal as Youngblood Priest, a cocaine dealer who is looking to get out of the drug game. He comes up with a plan to smuggle his drugs across the country but runs into trouble when the police start getting too close. Superfly is known for its powerful depictions of black characters and its gritty portrayal of inner-city life. The film was panned by critics but remains an important part of black cinema.
Jackie Brown
Jackie Brown is a 1997 crime thriller film directed by Quentin Tarantino. The film is based on the novel Rum Punch by Elmore Leonard and stars Pam Grier as the title character. Jackie Brown is a flight attendant who gets caught up in a smuggling scheme and has to outsmart the police in order to escape. The film features great performances from Grier and Samuel L Jackson and Robert De Niro, as well as some classic Tarantino dialogue.
Foxy Brown
Foxy Brown is a 1974 blaxploitation film that tells the story of a woman who seeks revenge on a gang of drug dealers who killed her boyfriend. Foxy goes undercover as a prostitute to infiltrate the company she believes is behind her boyfriend’s murder. The film stars Pam Grier as Foxy Brown, and she gives a powerhouse performance in the title role.
Coffy
Coffy is a 1974 blaxploitation film that tells the story of a woman who seeks revenge on the heroine dealer responsible for her young sister’s addiction. The film stars Pam Grier as Coffy who, similar to Foxy Brown, goes undercover as a prostitute in order to lure out the drug dealer and his boss.
The Mack
The Mack is a blaxploitation movie that was released in 1973. The film tells the story of Goldie Mickens played by Max Julien. After returning home from prison, Goldie becomes a pimp to make some money. He eventually becomes successful and catches the eye of a revival and two corrupt police detectives. The Mack is another tail of vengeance and spawned a sequel, The Mack II.
Cleopatra Jones
Cleopatra Jones is a 1973 blaxploitation film that tells the story of a woman who works for the government as a secret agent using her day job as a supermodel as a cover. Cleopatra Jones stars Tamara Dobson and is a departure from blaxploitation films as Jones is more of a James Bond type figure working from the government. Jones faces off against white evil drug lord, Mommy played by Shelley Winters.
Three the Hard Way
Three the Hard Way is a 1974 blaxploitation film that tells the story of three men who are trying to take down a white supremacist gang. The film stars Jim Brown, Fred Williamson, and Jim Kelly as the three leads, and they all give great performances as they punch, kick and karate chop their way through the film.
Truck Turner
Truck Turner is a 1974 film starring Isaac Hayes as bounty hunter Mack “Truck” Turner. In a reverse of other blaxploitation movies, Truck Turner finds himself on the receiving end of vengeance when a bounty he is chasing dies and the victim’s girlfriend swears vengeance.
Trouble Man
Trouble Man stars Robert Hooks as Trouble Man, T for short, a private detective who runs his operation out of a billiards hall in Los Angeles. T’s business is doing well and he looks out for the people in his neighbourhood but things take a turn when he is framed for murder.
Summary
These are just a few of the iconic blaxploitation movies from the 1970s. Some of the storylines are very similar with themes of drugs and prostitution and you can understand why these films were criticised for creating stereotypes about black people. Nevertheless, these films were important for showcasing the talents and creativity of black filmmakers and actors, and they continue to be popular to this day. If you’re looking for a great blaxploitation movie to watch, then these are definitely worth checking out.
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