Baadasssss!

2004 Drama

In 1971, filmmaker Melvin Van Peebles released his third film, Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song, which he wrote, directed, and scored. Despite boasting an all-black cast, an X rating, a low budget, and a decidedly non-Hollywood approach to moviemaking, the ground-breaking independent film went on to gross over ten million dollars while inspiring countless other films of the genre that would come to be called blaxploitation. Mario Van Peebles, the director's son, was 13 at the time and got his first taste of show business with a small role in the film. Over three decades later, the younger Van Peebles directed and co-wrote this film, in which he stars as his father. BAADASSSSS! chronicles the director's struggles to get the film made by highlighting the social roadblocks and production pitfalls Van Peebles faced, as well as the personal sacrifices he was forced to make. Also starring T.K. Carter, Ossie Davis, and Nia Long, BAADASSSSS! premiered at the 2004 Sundance Film Festival. more..

Director: Mario Van Peebles

Starring: Mario Van Peebles, Joy Bryant, T.K. Carter, Terry Crews,Ossie Davis

Reviews

  • What's fascinating is the way Mario, working from his father's autobiography and his own memories, has somehow used his first-hand experience without being cornered by it.

    Roger Ebert - The Chicago Sun-Times

    19 January 2013

  • The beauty of Baadasssss! is the way Mario Van Peebles salutes his father's truth by coaxing it into legend.

    Owen Gleiberman - Entertainment Weekly

    19 January 2013

  • A much better movie than the one it honors.

    Ty Burr - The Boston Globe

    19 January 2013

  • Does a terrific job of capturing the outlaw energy of the original production.

    Ann Hornaday - The Washington Post

    19 January 2013

  • The film is technically raw, but the sight of Van Peebles playing his father at a defining moment in movie history exerts a potent fascination.

    Peter Travers - Rolling Stone

    19 January 2013

Awards

  • Best Director

    Black Reel Awards (2005)

  • Best Feature

    Gijón International Film Festival (2004)

     
  • Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture

    Image Awards (2005)

     
  • Best Director

    Independent Spirit Awards (2005)

     
  • Best Feature Film

    Philadelphia Film Festival (2004)