Review of Ganja & Hess (1973) by Douglas P — 21 Feb 2008

A very interesting take on two genres : blaxploitation and vampires. Both are tempered with the director's hunger to make a black 'art' film that owed more to Bergman than to the grindhouse theater.

Performances are solid, music rich and well placed. However, despite the brave nature the film exhibits, it is occassionally mired in 70's trip imagery and I think it subdues the film. The main character who becomes the victim is a complex character - rich black recluse who somewhat is ambivalent towards the contemporary African-American - he could care no less, and he only needs them for blood.

Through this lense, the film is awe-inspiring. Wish Bill Gunn was given another chance to explore the genre.