Super Fly

Super Fly is a 1972 American cinematic masterpiece classified as a blaxploitation crime drama film. Directed by Gordon Parks Jr, the film presents the raw and gritty reality of Harlem's underbelly in the early 1970s.

Youngblood Priest, played by Ron O'Neal, is an established and well-respected cocaine dealer who dominates the New York City drug scene. The film engages viewers with his struggle to extricate himself from the world of crime. Dedication to storytelling keeps the audience tied to their seats, as they witness the vicissitudes of Priest’s life. The protagonist's main goal is to secure a hefty final haul that would let him retire from the drug-dealing business. Immersed in the challenges of the underworld, he is a man driven by a powerful desire for a better life, far removed from the drug-filled streets that currently define his existence.

Ron O'Neal's eloquent performance as Priest masterfully pulls viewers into his gripping desire for redemption. The movie does not glamorize the profession of its anti-hero, instead, it explores the toll this choice takes on Priest's life and his relationships. There is also a captivating sub-narrative featuring Eddie, Priest's long-time confidant, and partner in crime, brought to life by Carl Lee. Their camaraderie and conflicts tread a complex path throughout the film, revealing raw human emotions and stark realities about the world they inhabit.

One of the standout features of Super Fly is its iconic soundtrack created by Curtis Mayfield. The original score, punctuating and underlining major scenes, adds a storied layer to the movie, enhancing the storytelling and the '70s-drenched aesthetic of the film. The soundtrack, uses soulful rhythm and blues to craft a narrative almost as compelling as the film itself—without a doubt, one of the most accomplished integrations of movie and music of its time.

Sheila Frazier portrays Georgia, Priest's devoted love interest, in a performance brimming with sincere emotions. The subplot involving their romantic relationship adds further depth to the main narrative, exposing yet more hidden facets of Priest's character.

Set in the backdrop of a racially charged era, Super Fly goes beyond the confines of a simple crime drama to examine broader societal issues. It's not just the story of one man's quest for redemption but a commentary on the socio-economic struggles of black communities in urban America. The corruption and racism Priest encounters are a reflection of the systemic issues faced by the black community during the time. The film's strong social messages and critique of the American dream reflect the complexities of life in that era—complexities that remain relevant even today.

Super Fly emerged as a cult classic, significantly contributing to the blaxploitation genre. Its exploration of themes like crime, corruption, and redemption, coupled with its raw portrayal of society, blurred the established boundaries between mainstream and exploitation cinema. The film generated significant controversy due to its depiction of drug trafficking and related violence—all seen through the lens of its African American protagonist. Nonetheless, these contentious aspects also elicited conversations about the black experience.

Director Gordon Parks Jr., son of famed photographer and filmmaker Gordon Parks, leaves a distinctive mark on the film, imbuing the narrative with his unique vision. The director's deep understanding of the environment and complex characters is evident in the rich and realistic portrayal of the world they inhabit. His perspective aids viewers to see past the apparent moral ambiguity of the characters to grasp their humanity and their struggle to break free from the shackles that society has imposed on them.

Super Fly stands not just as a riveting tale of an anti-hero's quest for liberation but also as a critical piece of socio-political commentary. Its hard-hitting approach, combined with the memorable performances of Ron O'Neal, Carl Lee, and Sheila Frazier, has secured its place as one of the standout films of the blaxploitation era. It remains a significant piece of cinema, highlighting issues that continue to resonate with contemporary audiences. The enduring legacy of Super Fly is a testament to its powerful narrative, entrenched in the reality of its time and delivered through unforgettable characters and compelling performances.