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Blacula is a 1972 horror film directed by William Crain and starring William Marshall in the titular role, alongside Vonetta McGee and Denise Nicholas. The film tells the story of an African prince, who is turned into a vampire by Dracula himself, only to return to modern-day Los Angeles and cause chaos. The movie starts with the backstory of the title character, Blacula. We learn that in 1780, the African prince Mamuwalde (Marshall) travels to Transylvania to ask for Dracula's help in ending slavery, but instead, he is cursed by the vampire and locked away in a coffin for over 200 years.

The movie jumps to the present day (1972), where two interior decorators purchase Blacula's coffin at an estate auction. They unwittingly release the vampire, who begins to spread his curse within the city's African American community. Blacula becomes infatuated with a woman named Tina (McGee), who bears a striking resemblance to his long-dead wife Luva. Tina, along with her sister Michelle (Nicholas), become embroiled in the vampire's plans as he seeks to make her his eternal bride.

The movie's plot is not particularly complex, but it succeeds in creating a moody and atmospheric horror flick. Blacula is a classic horror film, with all the trimmings of the genre—it's filled with suspenseful music, jump scares, and dark, shadowy imagery. The film also explores themes of racism and injustice, adding a layer of social commentary to the mix.

William Marshall brings a regal presence to the role of Blacula, imbuing the character with a sense of dignity and tragic depth. He is both charming and terrifying, with his piercing eyes and baritone voice piercing through the screen.

McGee and Nicholas are also impressive, portraying strong and independent women who are not afraid to take on the vampire. The love story between Blacula and Tina is fraught with tension, as the vampire's motives are not entirely pure. The film's final act builds to a shocking and bloody climax, with plenty of twists and turns along the way.

Blacula's visuals are a standout aspect of the film, with its sleek '70s fashion and moody set design adding to the atmosphere. The film's use of Los Angeles as a backdrop provides a unique setting for the horror to take place. The combination of classic horror tropes and a modern-day urban setting makes for an engaging and unique cinematic experience.

In conclusion, Blacula is a must-see for any fan of classic horror movies. The film's blend of Gothic terror and '70s flair make it a unique entry into the genre, and William Marshall's performance as the titular character is unforgettable. Blacula's legacy has endured over the years, paving the way for more portrayals of black horror figures in mainstream media.

Blacula is a 1972 horror movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.