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CRITERIA

A Criterion Channel Companion

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Backdrop for Black Caesar

Poster for Black Caesar

Black Caesar

English • 1973 • 1h 35m

This film is not currently available on the Criterion Channel

Director

Crime Drama Thriller Action

Synopsis

Raised in Harlem, Tommy Gibbs becomes a successful mob boss but he clashes with the rival Mafia and his old enemy, dirty cop McKinney.

Included in
Fun City: NYC Woos Hollywood, Flirts with Disaster
Position 15
Included in
Beyond Blaxploitation
Position 6
Included in
April 2022
Position 13

Credits

Crew

DirectorLarry Cohen

WriterLarry Cohen

CinematographerFenton Hamilton

ComposerJames Brown

EditorGeorge Folsey Jr.

ProducerLarry Cohen, Benjamin Fisz, Kenneth Rive

Cast

Fred Williamsonas Tommy Gibbs

Gloria Hendryas Helen

Black Caesar (1973) | Criteria

as McKinney

D'Urville Martinas Rev. Rufus

Julius Harrisas Mr. Gibbs

Minnie Gentryas Mama Gibbs

Philip Royeas Joe Washington

William Wellman Jr.as Alfred Coleman

James Dixonas "Irish" Bryant

Val Averyas Cardoza

Patrick McAllisteras Grossfield

Don Pedro Colleyas "Craw"

Myrna Hansenas Virginia Coleman

Omer Jeffreyas Tommy (as a boy)

Michael Jeffreyas Joe (as a boy)

Allan Baileyas "Motor"

Cecil Alonzoas "Sport"

Francisco De Graciaas Cab Driver

Larry Lurinas Carlos

Andrew Dugganas Man at Shoeshine (uncredited)