1971
Directed by Gordon Parks
There are very few things about this film that don't make me cringe. "Who's the private dick that's a sex machine to all the chicks?" "But no one understands him but his woman"? Does "his" woman realize that he is screwing other people? And are we really blaming his infidelities on being "misunderstood"? Give me a break. I mean, the character's name was Shaft, so I wasn't expecting anything marvelous. Still, I am seriously going to break something if I have keep rolling my eyes so hard.
I guess I will defend its place in the Book since it is such a cultural icon. Still, I feel like it is complete shit masquerading as progress. We certainly need more films produced and directed by African Americans, especially during the seventies, but is this kind of movie that should fill that void? I really don't think so.
Anyone have thoughts on the remake?
RATING: **---
Interesting Facts:
The Shaft soundtrack is on the 1001 Albums List.
An impoertant film .. from it's time, and, as you say a cultural icon...
ReplyDeleteBut .. well, just not my thing.
Perhaps I'm jealous I'm not that cool, but I just don't like 'cool' as exemplified by characters like Shaft with all the strutting arogance.
Exactly Ray! Unless there is some sort of origin story where they are covered in radioactive goo that gives them special powers, I don't want an infallible hero.
DeleteWell, I actually found the completely exaggerated machismo and asshollery hilarious and liberating. shaft does not give a shit as opposed to the humble attitude black people has been expected to take in movies.
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