Cast
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Godfrey Cambridge
as Gravedigger Jones
Raymond St. Jacques
as Coffin Ed Johnson
Calvin Lockhart
as Rev. Deke O'Malley
Judy Pace
as Iris
Redd Foxx
as Uncle Bud / Booker Washington Sims
Emily Yancy
as Mabel
John Anderson
as Capt. Bryce
Lou Jacobi
as Goodman
Eugene Roche
as Lt. Anderson
J.D. Cannon
as Calhoun
Mabel Robinson
as Billie
Dick Sabol
as Jarema
Cleavon Little
as Lo Boy
Vinnette Carroll
as Reba
Tommy Lane
as "44"
Crew
Director
- Ossie Davis
Producer
- Samuel Goldwyn Jr.
Reviews
talisencrw
A very different but strong angle on the typical Blaxploitation flick. I really enjoyed it. Unfortunately I haven't seen a lot of Ossie Davis' work, either directing (which he does here) or acting (besides 'Bubba Ho-Tep' from late in his career), but it makes me want to check out a lot more. Well worth your trouble to find, worth buying and rewatching, in fact.
May 4, 2016
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Comedy/Crime film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Cotton Comes to Harlem distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Ossie Davis 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 1970, 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 Cotton Comes to Harlem took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $1.2 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 61 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1970, when this film was released:
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Cotton Comes to Harlem shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Black Dynamite, which focuses more on action than character development, Cotton Comes to Harlem offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Inglorious Bastards and Undercover Brother explore similar territory, Cotton Comes to Harlem 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: May 27, 1970
- Runtime: 1h 37m
- Budget: $1,200,000
Where to Watch
