Cool Breeze

Cool Breeze is a captivating 1972 crime adventure film directed by Barry Pollack, featuring the stellar talents of Thalmus Rasulala, Judy Pace, and Julian Christopher among others. This description provides insight into the storyline, themes, character arcs, and general atmosphere of the movie, without giving away crucial plot twists or revealing the ending.

The film is an influential addition to the Blaxploitation genre of the 70s. Blaxploitation, a fusion of "black" and "exploitation," was a cinematic trend characterized by the portrayal of black characters in stereotypically flashy or rebellious roles, often in crime or action-oriented storylines. Cool Breeze definitely fits this bill, following the footsteps of such pioneering films like "Shaft" and "Superfly".

The storyline of Cool Breeze is inspired by W.R. Burnett's crime novel, The Asphalt Jungle, which in itself was a 1950 film noir classic. This adaptation adds an innovative spin on the plot, shifting the setting from a murky, crime-ridden city to sunny California, accompanied by a soulful, thumping soundtrack typical of the era and genre.

Thalmus Rasulala, known for his charismatic and convincing performances, takes on the role of Sidney Lord Jones, an ex-con who, after getting released from prison, devises a plan to rob $3 million worth of ice - a slang reference to diamonds, not frozen water. Rasulala's gripping portrayal of Sidney gives the character a captivating aura of ambition, cunning intellect, and confidence. Sidney's character is key to the narrative, driving the plot while providing layers of moral uncertainty, suspense, and pulse-racing tension.

Collaborating with a motley crew of thieves, each with unique skills crucial for the heist, Sidney's crew includes the talents of Julian Christopher playing 'Johnny,' and a range of other characters who add depth to the plot. They bring a dynamic collective on-screen chemistry, each character shining on their own terms while constructing a complex and engaging narrative tapestry.

Judy Pace's role as 'Lindy,' a sharp-witted woman with her own agenda, adds complex narrative layers to the storyline. Her performance instills a sense of intrigue and mystery, as we aren't quite sure where her loyalties fully lie. Is she using Sidney for her own gain or will she truly stand alongside him when things start to boil over? Pace's performance as Lindy adds a touch of female empowerment to the otherwise male-dominated storyline.

The character arcs, plot development, and general narrative in Cool Breeze simultaneously echo and subvert the typical tropes of the Blaxploitation genre, infusing its fast-paced energy with a substantial critique of social inequality and racism. Thalmus Rasulala's Sidney is more than a mere ex-con seeking to seize an opportunity; he is presented as a product of societal failures, hoping to break from his imposed image and become a successful businessman in his own terms. These themes provide the film layers of social commentary and depth uncharacteristic of a typical genre film.

The film's style is marked by its vibrant cinematography, highlighting the essence of 70s Los Angeles, from downtown LA's swinging nightlife to the sun-washed landscapes of California. The aesthetic of the movie is beguiling and immersive, encapsulating viewers in its evocative visuals. Ace cinematographer Richard C. Glouner creates a visual spectacle, using natural lighting that flits between sunny California dreamscapes and the seedy underbelly of its criminal world.M

The icing on the cake, however, is indeed the soul and funk-fueled soundtrack. Composed by Solomon Burke, the music complements the film’s energetic narrative and action with intense rhythm and blues. The music contributes to Cool Breeze's distinct identity, setting the mood and pacing of the film while pushing forward its emotional intensity.

In short, Cool Breeze is a heady mix of crime, action, and social commentary, fueled by power-packed performances and gripping narrative twists. Through drama, thrill, and even elements of humor, Cool Breeze embodies the excitement of 70s Blaxploitation, ultimately leaving its mark as an unforgettable film of that era.