J.D.'s Revenge is likely one of the lesser known of the Blaxploitation/horror flicks that included such films as Blacula, Blackenstein, Abby and others. The film stars Glynn Turman (Cooley High) as Ike, a law student who set out to enjoy a night on the town with his friends when he takes part in a nightclub hypnosis act and becomes possessed by the spirit of a 40's gangster who'd been violently murdered. Believing himself to now be the reincarnation of the murderous J.D., Ike sets out to right some wrongs and seek vengeance against those who'd done him wrong.

The film's stellar cast is its true selling point, especially the presence of Academy Award winner Louis Gossett, Jr., though Turman and co-star Joan Pringle both redeem themselves quite nicely here. While the film itself is a fairly straightforward example of Blaxploitation/horror, the packaging here from Arrow Films pretty much makes this edition the one to get if you're into the Blaxploitation scene (and why wouldn't you be?). 

J.D.'s Revenge is remarkably complicated in spots, especially in the early going, though it's remarkably convenient when things become simplified and there's little explaining to do. But, there's something special about the film and it's mighty fun to watch. Admittedly, it's a film I wasn't familiar with before sitting down to watch this Blu-ray and I instantly sat down to watch it all over again. 

For more information on J.D.'s Revenge, visit the Arrow Films website linked to in the credits. Give the film a chance - you'll be glad you did. 

EXTRAS INCLUDE:

• Brand new 2K restoration from original film elements, produced by Arrow Films exclusively for this release
• High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) and Standard Definition DVD presentations
• Original 1.0 mono sound
• Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard-of-hearing
• Brand new interview with producer-director Arthur Marks
• More interviews to be announced!
• Original theatrical trailer
• Arthur Marks trailer reel
• Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Sean Phillips

© Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic