The Human Tornado

The Human Tornado, a movie released in 1976, enmeshes viewers into a whirlwind world of action, comedy, and blaxploitation cinema elements. It showcases the exceptional talent of its star, Rudy Ray Moore, known for his comedic charisma and impressive fighting skills.

This captivating flick is a sequel to the 1975 cult classic, "Dolemite," in which Rudy Ray Moore, playing the titular character, has become a legend in the underworld, known for his strong sense of justice despite his dubious occupation. The outlandish plot coupled with an awesome vintage vibe and colorful characters makes the film a must-see for fans of classic 70s cinema.

The story follows Dolemite, the fast-talking nightclub owner and martial arts expert. After an incendiary performance in his club, he unwittingly becomes the object of a southern Sheriff's wife's affection. The incident lands him in hot water with the Sheriff, leading to Dolemite getting run out of town and the murder of his club's regular patrons.

As Dolemite flees from the Deep South to California, he is immediately swept up in more danger and laughter-filled escapades. This road trip escapes ensures that there's never a dull moment in the film. With danger at every turn, Dolemite has to continuously maneuver tricky situations and deal with the unexpected.

Along the way, he reconnects with old friends: Queen Bee, a maternal figure to Dolemite and played by Lady Reed, and Jimmy Lynch. With their help, Dolemite embarks on a mission of righteous revenge. The cash siege is also an opportunity for him to utilize his unorthodox, yet effective, kung fu skills against some formidable foes.

This film is filled with classic elements of blaxploitation cinema: crime, action, humor, and some sprinkles of social commentary. The script's raucous humor, Rudy Ray Moore's unique brand of storytelling, and the movie's unapologetically vibrant style set it apart from other films in the genre, adding another layer of intrigue to the cinematic experience.

Director Cliff Roquemore crafts a narrative that hamstrings between zany humor and high-octane action with seamless finesse. While the film's budget may not be in the big league, its high-spirited appeal makes it an unmissable gem. The Human Tornado thrives on its energy, the eccentricity of its characters, and its creative storytelling approach.

Rudy Ray Moore, often referred to as the "Godfather of Rap," brings an electrifying performance to the movie. His hypnotic energy ripples off the screen, drawing viewers into Dolemite's extraordinary saga of quick-witted repartees, high-flying kicks, and convoluted escapades. His comic timing, sharp dialogue delivery, and flamboyant costume make Dolemite an unforgettable character in cinema history.

Lady Reed plays her part with grace and elegance, providing a counterbalance to Dolemite’s audacious character. Jimmy Lynch is commendable in his role as well, adding to the delightfully diverse cast. All performances deliver the emotional depth, humor, and action necessary for the film's surreal, chaotic world.

The score of The Human Tornado features a mixture of funk and soul sounds, enhancing the film's overall atmosphere and creating an immersive experience for viewers. The songs weave into the narrative’s context, reinforcing the mood and the 70s ambience.

While The Human Tornado retains the charm of a 1970’s film, its themes are relevant even today. It utilizes humor and absurdity to discuss severe issues like race and corruption, rendering it not just a source of entertainment but also an interesting critique of society.

The blend of martial arts fights, high-speed chases, quirky humor, funky music, and unforgettable one-liners make The Human Tornado a cult classic of the 70s era. This film embodies the essence of blaxploitation cinema, making it a standout in the genre and a testimony to Moore’s iconic image. Fans of Rudy Ray Moore or blaxploitation films are bound to appreciate this action-packed, comedic roller-coaster of a film.