Cast
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Pam Grier
as Coffy
Robert DoQui
as King George
Sid Haig
as Omar
Booker Bradshaw
as Howard Brunswick
William Elliott
as Carter Brown
Allan Arbus
as Arturo Vitroni
Linda Haynes
as Meg
Barry Cahill
as McHenry
Lee de Broux
as Nick
Ruben Moreno
as Ramos
Lisa Farringer
as Jeri
Carol Locatell
as Priscilla
John Perak
as Aleva
Mwako Cumbuka
as Grover
Morris Buchanan
as Sugarman
Crew
Director
- Jack Hill
Producer
- Robert Papazian
- Buzz Feitshans
Reviews
talisencrw
Over the course of my cinematic love affair, I have really enjoyed the few films I have seen, either starring Pam Grier, one of my favourite B-movie American actresses, or that were directed by Jack Hill. I can't get enough of especially the films of which they collaborated, 'Foxy Brown' and this, both of which I consider up there with the 'Shaft' trilogy and 'Super Fly' as masterpieces of the 'urban action' genre of the 70's. She, just 24 when she made this, certainly was one of the most beautiful and exciting women ever put on celluloid, and while I also love both Hill's short film 'The Host' and 'Switchblade Sisters' (viewed on one DVD as part of Quentin Tarantino's 'Rolling Thunder' reissue series), here his pacing and filming are on an entirely different level altogether.
It's a shame for us cinephiles that he chose at such an early age, 42 and clearly in his filmmaking prime, to retire from the business to both write novels as well as explore meditation with his wife, but I'm thankful for the films he made. The soundtrack (and most particularly the killer title song) by one of my favourite jazz/funk singer/musicians of the period, Roy Ayers, is up there with Curtis Mayfield's for 'Super Fly' as essential listening for lovers of such music.
Say what you want about him as a filmmaker, but I for one am glad that Tarantino has revived interest in both the actress (casting her as the star of 'Jackie Brown') and the director (through his aforementioned reissue series). It is an under-recognized way that Tarantino has significantly contributed to contemporary American cinema of all sorts, and has helped these unsung heroes from prior generations, who would otherwise be neglected and ignored unjustly from contemporary cinephilic attention.
Apr 19, 2016
hand2a
Has a brilliant Roy Ayers soundtrack, great costumes and a lot of good moments but is brought down overall by a few bad performances. Slow but enjoyable 3/5
Jan 22, 2025
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Crime/Thriller film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Coffy distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Jack Hill 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 1973, 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 Coffy took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.5 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 110 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 78 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1973, when this film was released:
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Coffy shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Angel, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Coffy offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Devil's Advocate and Cutaway explore similar territory, Coffy stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: June 13, 1973
- Runtime: 1h 30m
- Budget: $500,000
- Revenue: $4,000,000
Where to Watch
