Blu-ray Review Claudine – Criterion Blu-ray Review (1 Viewer)

[t1g3r5fan]

During the 1970’s, the blaxploitation genre rose to prominence with films like Shaft (1971), Black Caesar (1973) and Foxy Brown (1974), establishing new stars and drawing in considerable box office. However, there were some filmmakers who felt that the black experience wasn’t really given the faithful representation it deserved; enter Claudine, a film that made the effort to go beyond the blaxploitation genre and offer a realistic portrayal of black life, especially the family unit. Previously released on DVD by Fox, Criterion has licensed the film for its Blu-ray debut.



Claudine (1974)



Released: 26 Jun 1975
Rated: PG
Runtime: 92 min




Director: John Berry
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance



Cast: Diahann Carroll, James Earl Jones, Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, Tamu Blackwell
Writer(s): Tina Pine (original screenplay by), Lester Pine (original...

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[Darby67]

Another terrific review, Mychal. I am going to pick this up at the next Criterion Flash Sale or Barnes and Noble 50% Off Criterion Sale.

 

[John Dirk]

Thanks for an insightful review. I don't know that I would classify a film anchored by a single mother of 6 and dependent on welfare as a "faithful representation" of black life in America, even at the time this film was released. That doesn't mean it can't be decent and heartfelt and with a cast like the one on display here, it is definitely worth the purchase price for posterity alone.

 

[MatthewA]

I doubt at any time in James Earl Jones' career did he ever expect Claudine and The Lion King to be under the same corporate kingdom. They also own Julia, now that you mentioned it.

I hope this means the Fox/Criterion licensing deal continues further.

 

[Lord Dalek]

I doubt at any time in James Earl Jones' career did he ever expect Claudine and The Lion King to be under the same corporate kingdom. They also own Julia, now that you mentioned it.

And Mother, Jugs, & Speed!