Cast
View AllKeenen Ivory Wayans
as Jack Spade
Bernie Casey
as John Slade
Antonio Fargas
as Flyguy
Steve James
as Kung Fu Joe
Isaac Hayes
as Hammer
Jim Brown
as Slammer
Ja'net DuBois
as Ma Bell
Dawnn Lewis
as Cheryl
John Vernon
as Mr. Big
Clu Gulager
as Lt. Baker
Kadeem Hardison
as Willie
Damon Wayans
as Leonard
George James
as Bruno
Marc Figueroa
as Knuckles
David Alan Grier
as Newsman
Crew
Director
- Keenen Ivory Wayans
Writer
- Keenen Ivory Wayans
Producer
- Carl Craig
- Peter McCarthy
Reviews
GenerationofSwine
This was hysterical and in the Mel Brooks and Zuker brothers kind of way. The humor is over-the-top and extremely stupid. And what's not to love about that?
It's a spoof of the blaksploitation movies from the 70s, and despite the absurd humor, it actually approaches the genre with a meticulous eye carefully hitting all the tropes.
But, you don't need to know any of that. All you really need to know is that the film is smartly stupid, absolutely hysterical, and a total joy to watch.
It ranks up there with classic comedies and, most importantly of all, it will entertain you.
Jan 14, 2023
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Comedy/Action/Crime film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, I'm Gonna Git You Sucka distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Keenen Ivory Wayans brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1988, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of I'm Gonna Git You Sucka took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $3.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 88 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 144 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1988, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While I'm Gonna Git You Sucka shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike A History of Violence, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, I'm Gonna Git You Sucka subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Taxi Driver and Down by Law explore similar territory, I'm Gonna Git You Sucka stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 10, 1988
- Runtime: 1h 28m
- Budget: $3,000,000
- Revenue: $13,000,000