There are a lot of
reasons why a Black actor, in a 1976 Blaxploitation horror film, would not
get nominated for an Oscar, but if such a thing were
possible, Glynn Turman would have gotten the Oscar for his portrayal
of Isaac, a man possessed by a long dead mobster, out for revenge.
The story and production values of this film are excellent. I'm sure way over, in quality, compared to whatever budget this film got, but the unforgettable
thing is Glynn Turman's acting. Without any special effects he changes, right before you eyes, into an entirely different man. His face seems to take on a new bone structure and his change in persona is epic.
It is absolutely intriguing to see the transformation as Turman goes from a college student working his way through college as taxi driver, to J.D Walker, a slick hustler, from the 40s, who was killed after witnessing his sister's murder. As Isaac is taken over by JD he also inherits his mannerisms, hair style, and psychopathic behavior. JD sets out for maniacal revenge against the still living murders of his sister.
One of the reasons that I really enjoy a film like this, is that it's a time capsule that shows where a brother stood in the world of 1976. It gives me insight in a world outside my own. You get a chance to see how things have changed and how they've stayed the same, because one thing films do is reflect the real times they're made in. It's like, you can look at some Sci Fi films and know they're from the 80s, because the wardrobe people just took the clothes, kids and rock stars were wearing at the time, right off the rack. Then sewed some extra braiding on for the officers uniforms and spikes on the bad guy uniforms. It was an easy time for budget cinema sci fi.
This film hits on all cylinders. If you are a fan of excellent
cinema, you owe it to yourself to watch this flick.
The film deals
with harsh themes and violence so I would not say it was appropriate
for younger viewers. Picked up at the Berryville
Public Library
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