Recognizing Other Blaxploitation Films

In the article “ReDiggin’ the Scene” (June 30), Elaine Dutka fails to mention several noteworthy blaxploitation films of the ‘70s. How about “Cleopatra Jones” and its sequel, “Cleopatra Jones and the Casino of Gold,” both featuring the beautiful Amazon-looking Tamara Dobson? I saw both of those films as an adolescent and have forgotten neither. Here, you had a black single woman playing a government agent and helping her own people in the balance. Is there such a great role for a black woman today?

Also, why was “Sweet Sweetback’s Baad Asssss Song” left out? Is it because of the controversial nature of the film or the title itself? It’s a bit stunning considering Melvin Van Peebles and his son, Mario, have both done successful films based in the black communities.

And finally, no mention of the Cosby-Poitier films such as “Uptown Saturday Night” and “Let’s Do It Again”? Although not overtly violent, these films filled a need in the black middle class: They were commercial comedies, the kind that had been filled with whites for years and years. It may have been the first mainstream vindication for blacks in film.

MICHAEL HUENS

Los Angeles