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Shaft

R 1971 Action, Crime, Thriller · 1h 40m
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Cool Black private eye John Shaft is hired by a crime lord to find and retrieve his kidnapped daughter.

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About Shaft

In the heart of 1970s New York, a dangerous situation unfolds. A notorious Harlem crime boss enlists the help of John Shaft, a charismatic and resourceful private investigator, to rescue his kidnapped daughter. Shaft navigates the treacherous landscape of the city's criminal underworld, facing off against rival gangs and corrupt officials. He uses his wit, street smarts, and fighting skills to unravel the mystery behind the kidnapping and bring the perpetrators to justice, all while staying true to his own moral code. The deeper he delves, the more dangerous the game becomes, forcing Shaft to confront powerful enemies and make difficult choices.

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Shaft Trailer

Cast and Characters

Directed by Gordon Parks, Shaft features a stellar cast. Richard Roundtree delivers a career-defining performance as the eponymous John Shaft, a cool and collected private detective. Moses Gunn portrays Bumpy Jonas, the powerful crime boss who hires Shaft. Charles Cioffi plays Vic Androzzi, a police lieutenant who maintains a complex relationship with Shaft. Christopher St. John embodies Ben Buford, a Black nationalist leader who aids Shaft. Gwenn Mitchell appears as Ellie Moore, adding depth to Shaft's personal life, while Lawrence Pressman takes on the role of Sergeant Tom Hannon.

What people like about Shaft

Critics and audiences alike have lauded Shaft for its groundbreaking portrayal of a Black action hero, its pulsating soundtrack, and its gritty depiction of 1970s New York. Many praised Richard Roundtree's charismatic performance and Gordon Parks' stylish direction. Reviewers frequently highlighted the film's cultural impact and its contribution to the Blaxploitation genre. The film's realism, its social commentary, and its thrilling action sequences were also consistently praised, solidifying its status as a cinematic classic.

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Movie Score

64%

Released

June 25, 1971

Director

Gordon Parks

Film Series

Shaft Movies

Cast

Richard Roundtree, Moses Gunn, Charles Cioffi, Christopher St. John, Gwenn Mitchell, Lawrence Pressman

Genre

Action, Crime, Thriller

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