If you loved the gritty, stylish world of 'Super Fly' (1972), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that capture the same raw energy, blaxploitation flair, and urban drama that made 'Super Fly' a cult classic. Whether you're a fan of the genre or just discovering it, these picks will keep you hooked.

Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song (1971)
Description: A groundbreaking independent film that follows a fugitive on the run, featuring raw, unfiltered storytelling and a strong anti-establishment message.
Fact: The film was financed largely by Melvin Van Peebles himself, who also starred in and directed it. It was instrumental in launching the blaxploitation genre.


Across 110th Street (1972)
Description: A gritty crime thriller that explores the intersection of organized crime and street-level hustlers, with a focus on racial tensions and urban survival.
Fact: The film's title song, performed by Bobby Womack, became a hit and was later featured in Quentin Tarantino's 'Jackie Brown.' It was praised for its raw, unflinching portrayal of Harlem.


Blacula (1972)
Description: A horror film that reimagines the vampire mythos with a black protagonist, combining supernatural elements with social commentary and a funky aesthetic.
Fact: The film was one of the first to blend blaxploitation with horror, creating a unique subgenre. Its success led to a sequel, 'Scream Blacula Scream.'


Black Caesar (1973)
Description: A crime drama that follows the rise and fall of a Harlem gangster, featuring themes of power, corruption, and revenge, set to a funky soundtrack.
Fact: The film's score was composed by James Brown, adding to its gritty, soulful atmosphere. It was inspired by classic gangster films but reimagined for a black audience.


Cleopatra Jones (1973)
Description: A stylish action film featuring a female lead who combats drug lords and corruption, blending martial arts, car chases, and a strong social message.
Fact: The film was one of the first to feature a black female action hero in a leading role. Its glamorous yet tough protagonist became an icon of the blaxploitation era.


Foxy Brown (1974)
Description: A blaxploitation film featuring a strong, independent female protagonist who takes on the criminal underworld, blending action, revenge themes, and urban grit.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be a sequel to 'Coffy' but was reworked into a standalone story. It became a cult classic for its unapologetic portrayal of a black female hero.


Truck Turner (1974)
Description: An action-packed blaxploitation film centered around a bounty hunter navigating the dangerous world of crime, with a focus on street justice and survival.
Fact: Isaac Hayes, known for his music career, starred in the lead role and also contributed to the film's soundtrack. The movie is noted for its high-energy chase scenes and violent confrontations.


Dolemite (1975)
Description: A quintessential blaxploitation movie with a charismatic antihero, street-smart dialogue, and a mix of action and comedy set against an urban backdrop.
Fact: Rudy Ray Moore, the star, also financed the film himself after struggling to find backers. The movie's low-budget charm and over-the-top style have made it a beloved cult film.


Friday Foster (1975)
Description: A detective story featuring a black female protagonist who uncovers a conspiracy, combining elements of mystery, action, and social commentary.
Fact: The film was based on a comic strip of the same name, making it one of the first blaxploitation movies adapted from a comic. It starred Pam Grier in another iconic role.


Sheba, Baby (1975)
Description: A crime thriller with a female lead who returns to her hometown to take on loan sharks and gangsters, blending action, drama, and a touch of romance.
Fact: The film was one of Pam Grier's last blaxploitation roles before transitioning to more mainstream projects. It was noted for its strong female protagonist and urban setting.
