Scott Sanders' lovingly executed Blaxploitation homage had me
rolling on the floor at its Tribeca Film Festival screening with its
great score, perfectly timed jokes, and sight gags. "Black Dynamite"
could just be Michael Jai White's big break into mainstream features
for his unforgettable performance as a super-soul brother cut from the
same purple velvet as Shaft or Dolomite. Blaxploitation tropes, deadpan
tone, and stereotypes are treated with sublime narrative precision and
visual detail. Perhaps Sanders should make spoof versions of other
genres. He certainly has a magic touch with Blaxploitation. "Black
Dynamite" could serve as a textbook DIY how-to guide for what
constitutes the elements of Blaxploitation cinema. This may be the
all-time best party film next to "Animal House." If this movie doesn't
make you laugh, call a doctor.
Rated R. 90 mins. (A-) (Four Stars)
