Skip to content

Tonight Collections Voices The Daily Library

Search films, people and collections/

Advanced search

A Criterion Channel companion.

Tonight
On 24/7
Leaving soon
Recently added
Fresh from theaters

Collections
Adventures in Moviegoing
Observations on Film Art
Meet the Filmmakers
Box sets
Editions

Closet
Top 10s
Commentators
The Feed

Lists
Want to watch
Favorites
Profile

© 2026 Criteria. Not affiliated with The Criterion Collection.

Still from Ganja & Hess — Ganja & Hess (1973) — Bill GunnPhotographed by James E. Hinton

Poster for Ganja & Hess

Bill Gunn

Ganja & Hess

United States / English / 1973 / 1h 53m

Not streamingNot currently on the Criterion Channel.

Drama Fantasy Horror

Letterboxd: 3.66/5·19.4K ratings·7.1K reviewson Letterboxd
Connections: View Connections

Synopsis

After being stabbed with an ancient, germ-infested knife, a doctor finds himself with an insatiable desire for blood.

Included in
70's Horror
Position 12
Included in
Additions: August 2020
Position 21
Included in
Three by Bill Gunn
Position 2

Credits

Crew

DirectorBill Gunn

WriterBill Gunn

CinematographerJames E. Hinton

ComposerSam Waymon

EditorVictor Kanefsky

ProducerChiz Schultz

Cast

Marlene Clarkas Ganja Meda

Duane Jonesas Dr. Hess Green

Bill Gunnas George Meda

Sam Waymonas Rev. Luther Williams

Leonard Jacksonas Archie

Candece Tarpleyas Girl in Bar

Richard Harrowas Dinner Guest

John Hoffmeisteras Jack Sargent

Betty Barneyas Singer in Church

Mabel Kingas Queen of Myrthia

Betsy Thurmanas Poetess

Enrico Falesas Dr. Green’s Son

Tommy Laneas Pimp

Tara Fieldsas Woman with Baby

Ganja & Hess (1973) | Criteria