Much has been written and said about the Blaxploitation genre, some of it negative and some of it positive. However, one thing is sure. This genre made an indelible mark on our culture. When there were no, or very few, positive African American role models in film, an intrepid group of writers and filmmakers provided them. To do so they seized upon one of the most enduring, omnipresent archetypes of American literature and culture and made it their own. For whatever this new class of heroes was or was not, no matter how imperfect they may have been, they were our heroes and heroines, and for a time, they were all we had.
These are just a few of my favorites. And I give you, my paean to the Bad Nigga' Archetype:
Dolemite
"Nobody talks that smack like Dolemite! He defines the big bad negro archetype! I want to be like him when I grow up!
[WARNING: Brief nudity, crass humor, shit-talking]
Savage
The baddest dude with the biggest gun! I’ve been looking all over for this one. Can someone tell me where I can find a copy of this film so that I might complete my collection?
Cleopatra Jones
Whatever happened to Tamara Dobson? Maybe I should send the search party out.
Boss Nigger
When I was very young, an irresponsible uncle took me to the drive-in to check this one out. I had to hide in the trunk of his car to get in. That uncle is now a minister.
Legend of Nigger Charley
The same uncle took me to see this one as well.
Black Belt Jones
An undeniable classic.
Foxy Brown
Who could forget Foxy Brown. That was one super bad lady. And have you seen Pam Grier lately? She is absolutely ageless. I it's true; black don't crack!
