Review of Blacula (1972) by Justin A — 25 Jan 2015

Notable for the more steady alliance between black and white characters than others in the genre, 'Blacula' is one of the more known and discussed entries from the blaxploitation era. Overall, the film is a bit of a mixed bag. There's lots of fun to be had here, especially in way of horror and action sequences (the pyrotechnics are excellent), but the story doesn't always maintain momentum. William Marshall is strong in the titular role, though Vonetta McGee is less competent as the object of his desire; the pair also lack chemistry to give their blossoming romance bite, so to speak. The production is redeemed by an excellent title sequence and stunning soundtrack.

It was the first picture to receive the Best Horror Film nod at the Saturn Awards and was followed by 'Scream Blacula Scream' in 1973.