Review of Black Dynamite (2009) by Robin F — 22 Jan 2011
Finally! An original American comedy whose end product matches up to its constituent parts.
After years of being systemically underwhelmed by the Wayans brothers and an endless parade of torture from the likes of Epic/Disaster/Superhero Movies, the US finally delivers a comedy which is genuinely funny.
Scott Sanders' Black Dynamite is a razor-sharp, spiritually affirmative and constantly entertaining tribute/parody of just about every Blaxploitation film to surface in the early/mid 70s.
Michael Jai White nails the title character with just the right sense of knowing and overly impresses with a great combination of underplayed comic-timing and faux-determination to convince us he's serious about his mission.
Jai White has so far led a very interesting career. He first came to public attention in the deeply-flawed but mysteriously accepted Spawn. This was followed by a stab at portraying perennial controversy-magnet Mike Tyson and culminating with a return to the comic-book genre as Gambol in 2009's The Dark Knight.
If there is any justice in the world, this film should convince Hollywood that, thanks to producing and writing duties as well as the lead role, he's more than just black muscle. If they don't twig then at the very least Sly can give him a call for his Expendables sequel.
For the entire duration of the running time we are treated to a lovingly recreated America of the 70s which, unlike efforts from certain Taranti... er... directors, never loses its charm and is consistently authentic right through to the closing credits.
Black Dynamite is impeccably observed, wonderfully played and delivers the best genre spoof since The Naked Gun. See it. Dig it.
This review of Black Dynamite (2009) was written by Robin F on 22 Jan 2011.
Black Dynamite has generally received very positive reviews.
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