Blacula (1972)
Blacula is the first on-screen appearance of a black actor playing a vampire. It was also unique at the time because it employed a black lead. I will say that William Marshall, who plays the lead (Prince Mamuwalde), presents us with an incredibly strong and imposing vampire in this film, better than many attempts at Dracula, in my opinion. He's strong and majestic, and bone-chillingly calm. There are cons to the blaxploitation genre, that being the reinforcement of certain black stereotypes, but William Marshall did get to have some input into his character, hoping to keep him dignified. I was honestly expecting this movie to be campier than it was; it's a decently chilling vampire movie.
African Prince Mamuwalde is bitten by Dracula and imprisoned in a tomb as a punishment for seeking Dracula's help to end the slave trade. Dracula also enslaves the Prince's wife. He is finally freed years later in 1972 and is seeking revenge. As he is out exploring the world, he sees a woman who resembles his long-dead wife and is enamored with her. Initially scaring her, she soon becomes interested in him as well. However, detectives are on the hunt for him, as he is leaving quite a body count in his wake. As they close in on the prince, the stakes are raised, and the tension rises.
This film has mixed reviews, and I guess I can see why. Aside from a strong performance from the lead, and I think good performances from most of the supporting cast, the plot is very basic, and there isn't a ton going on. However, as I said before, I think the performances are enough to carry the film. I wish there was a more substantial plot, but aside from that, I don't have much to pick on with this film.
I recommend checking this flick out. It's an entertaining, creepy vampire movie and it's fun to see black people given a lead role in a genre that they were never really seen in before. Not to mention the ending is heartbreaking. I think this movie is unique and a worthwhile watch for any horror fan.
Netflix available: DVD
Hulu available: no
Xfinity available: Yes, for a fee
Amazon Prime available: Yes, for a fee
Rating: 3.5/5