Mandingo

This shocking and controversial potboiler set in antebellum Louisiana chronicles the decline and fall of the slave-breeding Maxwell family, headed by dictatorial patriarch Warren (James Mason). Determined to have another heir, Warren persuades his randy son (Perry King) to wed a pouty Southern belle (Susan George) whose vengeance-fueled sexual encounters with a slave (Ken Norton) lead to disastrous consequences.

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» Reviewed by 2 people

I'm not sure if this qualifies as a classy exploitation film, or an exploitive attempt at legitimate art. The film pretty much succeeds in both areas. The entire movie is beautifully shot and wonderfully acted. If the subject was less controversial, this film would be mentioned alongside other classic works that deal with slavery. But this film makes very little effort to make the subject palatable for the casual viewer. The slaves are used as objects, and aside from a very few, seem quite content with their place. The film also doesn't hesitate to show the crueler aspects of slavery; hangings, beatings, and rape are all shown as everyday occurrences. It can be difficult to watch, but those that take the time will be rewarded with a much richer experience than they are expecting.
- Brody

Exploitation anyone? How about a masterpiece of titillating tasteless schlock of epic proportions? Only in the 70's could something like this have been made. Potentially shocking and disgusting to some viewers, this movie is best left to fans of the genre. It is like Roots' evil twin or a quality version of Goodbye Uncle Tom, but with a plot. Produced by Dino De Laurentiis, this is a big Hollywood production, not your typical B movie. High production values and a good cast including British actor James Mason, Susan George, and boxer Ken Norton, excellent cinematography, and a great soundtrack help to make this an amazing exercise in voyeuristic entertainment. Of course it is also crude and trashy and completely lacking in any moral decency or political correctness. Sounds good huh? Seriously though, slavery is an abomination and there are many more socially responsible movies that deal with the subject in a respectful and mature manner. This on the other hand is best left to fans of exploitation, and if you are not one, why would you want to watch it?
- couchdog53