Black
Dynamite - Season One (2012/Warner/Adult Swim Blu-ray)
Picture:
A- Sound: B+ Extras: C Episodes: B
Based
on a 2009 film of the same name, Black Dynamite is a newer
Adult Swim series that premiered in July of 2012. The television
series plays on the 'Blaxploitation' premise of the 1970s,
just as the 2009 film had.
The
series involves Black Dynamite (Michael Jai White) and his crew
getting into a host over explosive, over the top misadventures. The
crew consists of Bullhorn (Byron Minns), Kym Whitley (Honeybee), and
Cream Corn (Tommy Davidson); each bringing their own special brand of
charm and abilities to the table. The main villain in the series is
oddly and hilariously [just as in the film] Richard Nixon. Whereas
the series does not follow the direct continuity of the film, there
are back references to a certain degree. Though this first season is
a mere ten (10) episodes long, it packs a powerful punch. The
self-aware 'Blaxploitation' genre has the crew set out on
variety of missions that involve many different black celebrities.
This goes on to include the likes of Richard Pryor, Mr. T, Michael
Jackson, OJ Simpson, and even [the not so black] Elvis Presley.
The
insanity that was Black Dynamite the feature film is taken to
the next level here in animated form; as we are treated to the same
outlandish antics, but with better production value. That is the say
(yes) the creators continue to poke fun at low production value with
prop mishaps and poor (over the top) acting; but NOW the beautifully
constructed series has sweeping footage and intense angles that take
the series to the next level.
The
amped up violence, perfectly executed jive talk, and bizarre missions
collectively create an atmosphere of controlled chaos as Black
Dynamite and his crew prove that anything is possible (as least on
Adult Swim).
The
Blu-ray release here is beautiful. The picture is a 1080p, 2.40 X 1
High Definition Wide Screen that boasts of a stylish and powerful
color palate. The series takes a page from other series like The
Boondocks utilizing warm Autumn hues, but concurrently infusing
blasts of color. The crisp, clean image translates a 1970s feel with
the modern 'conveniences' of today's high definition features.
The sound is a lossless 5.1 Dolby TrueHD mix that utilizes all
speakers for this fast moving, high action series; projecting the
dialogue, music, and adventure nicely from all speakers. Panning
effects are solid throughout and prioritization is equally well done.
Black
Dynamite is a truly fun series that will have viewers laughing
from beginning to end; while at the same time having the viewer
completely engrossed in the over the top action and adventure.
-
Michael P. Dougherty II
