Cleopatra Jones and the Casino of Gold

Cleopatra Jones and the Casino of Gold is a "blaxploitation" movie from the 1970s, and the sequel to the successful first movie, Cleopatra Jones. It ranks among the most popular entries in this unique genre, thanks to its action-packed sequences, stylish aesthetic, compelling storyline, and lead actress, Tamara Dobson.

The film's plot revolves around the titular character, Cleopatra Jones (Tamara Dobson), a special agent working for the United States government. Tall, glamorous, and formidable, Jones is a force to be reckoned with, who takes on criminal organizations single-handedly and battles them with her unrivaled martial art skills and unperturbed charm.

In this particular installment, Cleopatra Jones finds herself in Hong Kong investigating the disappearance of her fellow agents Matthew Johnson and Melvin Johnson, who were undercover on a mission. The trail leads her to the 'Casino of Gold,' a notorious gambling den ruled by the nefarious Dragon Lady (Stella Stevens).

Dragon Lady is a dangerous antagonist, running a major criminal empire in the East Asia region. She is exceptionally ruthless, controlling her empire with an iron fist while maintaining a stylish and elegant demeanor. Stella Stevens delivers a solid performance as the antagonist, weaving a branched narrative with multiple layers that challenge our protagonist at every turn.

As Cleopatra Jones ventures deeper into the seedy underbelly of Hong Kong's criminal world, she finds a willing and able ally in Mi Ling Fong (Ni Tien). Together, the duo takes on an adventure full of high-paced chases, epic fight sequences, and unexpected revelations leading to a gripping climax, all set against the lush and evocative backdrop of 70s' Hong Kong.

The film is a dynamic blend of action, adventure, and drama that does not shy away from the grandeur representations of the '70s, whether it's Cleopatra's signature style, the elaborate set designs, or the non-stop action. The film also incorporates elements of eastern martial arts, making it a cross-cultural extravaganza. This hybrid nature of the film adds a global flavor and makes it distinct from many of its contemporaries.

Tamara Dobson delivers an exceptional performance as Cleopatra Jones. With her towering height of six feet two inches, magnificent beauty, and domineering presence, Dobson embodies the character effortlessly. Her character embodies the spirit of female empowerment, standing toe-to-toe with male antagonists and often outsmarting them with superior intellect and physical prowess. It's not just her looks and style that make her a force to be reckoned with; her quick thinking and fighting abilities make her one of the most memorable action heroines of the 1970s.

The film was directed by Charles Bail, who had a knack for elevating action sequences to new heights. His notable use of innovative camera angles, over-the-top chase sequences, and apt use of his environments creates a cinematic spectacle worthy of the era's highest-grossing action flicks.

Cleopatra Jones and the Casino of Gold also boasts impressive sets and costumes, showcasing the '70s in all its colorful and creative glory. The film's depiction of Hong Kong is particularly notable, revealing an intoxicating mix of traditional Chinese culture and modern, cosmopolitan influences.

In summary, Cleopatra Jones and the Casino of Gold showcases its era's crime cinema with fast cars, high fashion, and larger-than-life characters, all set against the backdrop of an international criminal underworld. It provides a blend of western and eastern cinematic styles, populated with strong women characters and set in densely creative set designs. Cleopatra Jones, as a character and cinematic icon, is seared into the memories of moviegoers even years after the film's release. The film remains an enduring part of the blaxploitation era, preserving and presenting a distinct period of American filmmaking for a new generation of viewers.