I saw Coffy.

General Reviews

I came to the conclusion that not all cult films, or films from the '70s, are that good.

 

PRotagonist Pam grier.

I came across this film by accident while browsing an online catalogue, and its cover caught my attention. Although I enjoyed watching it, I have mixed feelings. 

 

What did I like? 

 

The direction: The film was directed in a dynamic way that reminded me of Quentin Tarantino's films, and as the Blaxploitation films were a direct influence on his work, he basically directed a reimagined 'Jackie Brown', with a touch of 'Foxy Brown'. There are unforgettable scenes, such as the fight in the pimp's apartment, when Coffy attacked the guard under the bridge, and when one of the dealers is killed... They are memorable.

 

The camp effect: This point will be repeated twice in my review, both positively and negatively, as the film takes itself very seriously. Its material, both good and bad, attracts a lot of laughter in moments that would theoretically be more dramatic, such as when Coffy fights with the other girls in the pimp's group, or at the beginning of the film, which is funny because it is so ridiculous.

 

What was ‘meh’?

 

The central story: It tells us how the protagonist's sister dies from drug use, and while it is within the exploitation of the film's subgenre, I think there could have been a better balance between drama and black comedy. 

 

The camp effect: This is the second time the point has been made. The film takes itself too seriously, and a promising central plot is taken for granted with poor special effects and rapid sequences with attempted seriousness. 

 

Special effects: There is not much to develop here, although it is funny because it looks ridiculous and fake. Two things can be true at the same time: it ruins a promising central plot.

 

What did I dislike?

Nothing displeased me.

 

I would recommend it if people like films that allow them to switch off for an hour and a half. It's a relatively short film.

 

Rating: 3.5/10.

 

Have you seen the film, or would you like to? Let me know in the comments.

Comments 3

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IshikaJuly 4, 2025
As a modern film watcher, I really try to go back and watch movies from the '70s and '80s because I know they're considered staples of cinema. But honestly, some of them just don’t hold up. It’s probably a mix of nostalgia and the fact that everyone hypes them up because they came from a different era. Great article!
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Gwen PemJuly 3, 2025
It's always interesting going back in time through cinema. You're right, the movies aren't always amazing, but if you go in knowing that, it's usually a fun time. Do you think you'll watch any more blaxploitation films?
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Lucas.July 3, 2025
I agree with you that not all 70s cult movies are good. I've watched a few blackploitation films too and, though they are obviously unique in their design, I still can't say that they are actually "good" movies no matter what Tarantino says.

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