RensDad666’s review published on Letterboxd:
A blaxploitation reimagining of the Dracula tale set in 1970’s Los Angeles was the perfect weeknight Spooky Season viewing. Largely credited as one of the first (if not the very first) Black horror films, helping kickstart a genre in the process, William Crane’s 1972 classic Blacula still oozes a nearly flawless blend of style, social commentary and camp.
From the moment William Marshall took hold of Blacula’s scenery, I was as transfixed on his performance as a spellbound virgin to Count Drac himself. His turn as Prince Mamuwalde is sophisticated, steady, and ominous as fk. The rest of the cast are in lockstep as well, matching the tone and aesthetic of 70’s LA and each other’s performances effortlessly. And just straight up cool. Oh… and I have to point out that the near 10 minute music scene led by soul-funk group The Hues Corporation (yes I googled that) in the nightclub is a brilliant and cohesive piece of its overarching narrative. Take notes Hollywood!
Despite its playful nature and exaggerated tone, there are a number of impactful themes propping up Blacula as a welcome piece of film history, but it’s all pulled off with a sincere assuredness. Essential viewing for my horror homies.
🧛🏿♂️🧛🏿♀️⚰️🩸🇺🇸
