Solomon King: The Forgotten Gem of 1970s Cinema

In the bustling era of 1970s cinema, a time when Hollywood was churning out classics like "The Godfather" and "Jaws," a lesser-known film called "Solomon King" emerged, capturing the essence of the decade's gritty, action-packed storytelling. Directed by Sal Watts, this 1974 film was set in the vibrant streets of Oakland, California, and starred Watts himself as the titular character. "Solomon King" was a bold attempt to showcase a black hero in a genre dominated by white leads, and it did so with a flair that was both audacious and unapologetic. The film's plot revolves around Solomon King, a former Green Beret and CIA operative, who embarks on a mission to avenge the murder of his fiancée by a Middle Eastern oil magnate.

Now, let's dive into why "Solomon King" deserves more recognition and why it might just ruffle some feathers today. First off, the film was a trailblazer in its own right. It was one of the few films of its time to feature a black lead in a role that wasn't subservient or stereotypical. Solomon King was a man of action, intelligence, and charisma, a character who could stand toe-to-toe with the likes of James Bond or Dirty Harry. This was a significant departure from the norm and a powerful statement about representation in media.

Secondly, the film's setting in Oakland was a deliberate choice that added a layer of authenticity and grit. Oakland in the 1970s was a hotbed of cultural and political activity, and "Solomon King" captured that energy perfectly. The film's urban backdrop was not just a setting but a character in its own right, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of the African American community.

Moreover, the film's soundtrack was a funky, soulful mix that perfectly encapsulated the era. It was a time when music was as much a part of the storytelling as the dialogue, and "Solomon King" delivered on that front. The soundtrack was a blend of jazz, funk, and soul, creating an auditory experience that was as engaging as the visual one.

Now, let's talk about why this film might upset some modern sensibilities. For starters, "Solomon King" was unapologetically masculine. In today's climate, where traditional masculinity is often criticized, the film's portrayal of a strong, decisive male lead might be seen as problematic. Solomon King was a man who took matters into his own hands, who didn't wait for permission or approval. He was a doer, not a talker, and that kind of character is increasingly rare in today's media landscape.

Additionally, the film's depiction of violence was raw and unfiltered. In an age where media is often sanitized to avoid offending delicate sensibilities, "Solomon King" stands out as a relic of a time when films didn't shy away from showing the harsh realities of life. The action sequences were intense and visceral, a far cry from the CGI-laden spectacles of today.

Furthermore, the film's portrayal of its villains was straightforward and unambiguous. There were no shades of gray, no attempts to humanize or justify their actions. They were the bad guys, plain and simple, and Solomon King was there to take them down. This kind of black-and-white morality is often criticized in modern storytelling, which tends to favor complex, morally ambiguous characters.

Finally, "Solomon King" was a film that celebrated individualism and self-reliance. In a world where collectivism and conformity are often championed, the film's message of personal responsibility and empowerment might be seen as controversial. Solomon King was a man who relied on his skills, his wits, and his determination to achieve his goals, a message that resonates with those who value personal freedom and autonomy.

In the end, "Solomon King" is a film that deserves to be remembered and celebrated. It was a bold, daring piece of cinema that broke new ground and challenged the status quo. It was a film that dared to be different, and in doing so, it left an indelible mark on the landscape of 1970s cinema. So, if you're looking for a film that embodies the spirit of a bygone era, look no further than "Solomon King."