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Hit Man is a 1972 blaxploitation film that features a gritty and intense narrative, reflective of the genre's characteristic style that emerged during the early 1970s. Directed by George Armitage, this film was part of a wave of African American action films that sought to address issues of race and power within the frame of an engaging and action-packed story. Starring Bernie Casey, Pam Grier, and Lisa Moore, Hit Man weaves an enthralling tale involving family, revenge, and the criminal underworld.

The film follows the story of a man named Tyrone Tackett, portrayed with compelling intensity by Bernie Casey, who is an ex-football player returning to his hometown in Los Angeles after a period away. He comes back to a world very different from the one he left, as he discovers a stark reality that forces him into a web of crime and vengeance. With the streets of LA as its gritty backdrop, Hit Man delves into the dark underbelly of the city, offering an unflinching look at violence and corruption.

Upon his arrival, Tyrone is immediately faced with a personal tragedy that sets him on a collision course with the city's criminal elements. Tackett is a brooding figure, a man of few words, but his towering presence and physical prowess speak volumes. His search for answers and resolution soon finds him squarely in the sights of the local mob, who operate under the slick veneer of legitimacy. Tyrone’s investigation leads him through a labyrinth of deceit, betrayal, and danger, where he has to rely on both his wits and brawn.

Pam Grier, an actress who became a symbol of strong, sexy, and empowered black women through her work in blaxploitation films, plays a significant role in Hit Man. Her character is a seductive and resilient woman who becomes entangled in the unfolding drama. Grier's performance adds a layer of complexity and allure to the story, her character embodying the struggle and survivability of those caught within the criminal world.

Lisa Moore, another talented actress of the time, contributes to the narrative with her portrayal, adding depth to the film’s examination of loyalty, family, and morality. Like many films of its genre, Hit Man features a range of characters from different walks of life, each with their own motivations and backgrounds, adding to the rich tapestry of the story.

The soundtrack of Hit Man is fittingly evocative, featuring soul and funk grooves that capture the mood of the era. This music plays a vital supporting role, underpinning the film's scenes with energy and emotion, further immersing the audience in its time and place. It helps set the stage for scenes ranging from intimate character moments to the high-octane action sequences that are integral to the film’s impact.

Visually, Hit Man is steeped in the aesthetics of its time. The cinematography captures the urban landscape with a raw, sometimes almost documentary-like quality. The fashion and style presented in the film are a time capsule of early '70s cool, showcasing a range of iconic looks that define the characters as much as their actions do.

As a film within the blaxploitation genre, Hit Man also doesn’t shy away from exploring societal themes prevalent in the 1970s. Despite being a crime thriller at its core, it serves as a commentary on the African American experience, relating to issues such as systemic oppression, the struggle for self-empowerment, and the dynamics within black communities. Tyrone Tackett’s character, while navigating his personal vendetta, also embodies a sort of anti-hero reflecting wider frustrations and the desire for justice within a system that often seems skewed against them.

With its blend of visceral action, melodrama, and topical themes, Hit Man stands as a culturally resonant piece that not only aimed to entertain but also to reflect the times in which it was created. It can be seen as a product of both its era and the revolutionary spirit that was particularly prevalent in the filmmaking of the African American community during that time. While it may include some elements that could be considered part of the exploitation genre, Hit Man also offers an insight into the cultural and societal dynamics of 1970s America, with particular focus on the African American experience.

In summary, Hit Man is an intense crime drama that captures the mood and atmosphere of its time, while delivering a compelling story of one man's quest for retribution within the unforgiving streets of Los Angeles. The performances by Bernie Casey, Pam Grier, and Lisa Moore help to anchor a narrative that combines action, social commentary, and a raw look at the complexities of the human spirit.

Hit Man is a 1972 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.