Watch Candy Tangerine Man
- R
- 1975
- 1 hr 32 min
-
6.1 (325)
Candy Tangerine Man is a 1975 blaxploitation crime-drama film starring John Daniels, Eli Haines, and Tom Hankason. The film is set in Los Angeles and follows the life of a high-end, black pimp named Baron (John Daniels) as he navigates the dangerous world of drug deals, protection rackets, and violent turf wars. Baron is different from the other pimps, as he is an honest businessman who treats his "employees" well and doesn't resort to violence to maintain control. He is also a family man, with a wife and two kids, and tries to keep his home life separate from his business dealings.
Despite his attempts to remain above the fray, Baron's world is soon thrown into chaos when a rival pimp, "The White Folks" (Tom Hankason), sets his sights on Baron's turf. Along with his two henchmen, The White Folks begin threatening Baron's girls and even killing some of them to send a message.
Baron refuses to back down, even when The White Folks start recruiting underage girls to work for them. Instead, he decides to take matters into his own hands and goes on a mission to stop them once and for all.
Meanwhile, a squad of corrupt cops is also hot on Baron's trail, trying to catch him in the act of some illegal business dealings. Baron manages to outsmart the cops at every turn, but he soon realizes that he may have to team up with another pimp, Larry (Eli Haines), to take down The White Folks for good.
Throughout the film, Candy Tangerine Man shines a spotlight on the dark underbelly of the pimping world in the 1970s, as well as the struggles that black business owners faced in a racially-charged society. The film also features plenty of action, with car chases, shootouts, and fistfights aplenty.
But what truly sets Candy Tangerine Man apart is its sympathetic portrayal of Baron, who is not your typical pimp stereotype. Instead, he is a complex character who cares deeply about his family and his girls, and is willing to risk everything to protect them. John Daniels gives a solid performance in the lead role, bringing depth and nuance to a character that could have easily been one-dimensional.
The supporting cast also shines, particularly Tom Hankason as the villainous White Folks, who exudes a chilling menace throughout the film. Eli Haines delivers a solid performance as Larry, who initially clashes with Baron but eventually becomes a valuable ally.
Overall, Candy Tangerine Man is a gripping crime drama that offers an insightful look at an often-overlooked facet of American society. Its well-rounded characters, thrilling action sequences, and social commentary make it a must-see for fans of the blaxploitation genre.