A shipment of American weapons is stolen in the Philippines. An American named Hawkins tries to find the weapons. Hawkins ends up dead. Chicago policeman Bob Malone is called in to investigate. Along with Interpol agent Greg Duncan, Malone travels the streets of Manila, tracking down leads.
Before “Black Panther”, before there was “Shaft”, “Foxy Brown”, and “Super Fly” — explosive stories led by unapologetically Black characters. The era was loud, proud, and revolutionary. But what exactly is “blaxploitation”, and why does it still matter today?
These iconic Black-led films brought power, pride, and pure action to the screen — laying the foundation for today’s genre-defining heroes. As a celebration of Black cinema, you can stream every title free right now on Pave TV.
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1. Spirit of Youth (1938)
The champ plays himself.
Joe Louis stars in this dramatized biopic based on his early life. A rare portrayal of a Black sports hero during the golden age of boxing, “Spirit of Youth” is part inspiration, part time capsule.
Private investigator Velvet Smooth uncovers a city-wide drug ring with brains, beauty, and backup. A powerful, female-led blaxploitation gem that deserves more spotlight.
Detective Robert Malone goes global in this action-packed third chapter of the “Black Cobra” series. Gunfights, high-speed chases, and tough justice — with Fred Williamson at the center.
Jeannie Bell takes the lead as TNT Jackson, a no-nonsense fighter carving a path through Hong Kong’s criminal underworld. A true fusion of kung fu and classic blaxploitation fire.
Fred Williamson delivers vengeance in this Black western classic. As a Civil War veteran turned gunslinger, he seeks retribution in a town where justice isn’t served — it’s taken.
As one of TV’s first Black female action heroes, Christie Love breaks rules, cases, and hearts with swagger. Blazing a trail for women in law enforcement and on screen.
Starring Fred Williamson, Jim Brown, Jim Kelly, and Richard Roundtree — this is Black action royalty united. After their friend is shot, two martial artists take on a corrupt fight promoter and his mob connections. Explosions, karate, and cool.
Warhawk Tanzania delivers a decisive arm strike in Devil’s Express (1976).
Kung fu meets underground horror.
Warhawk Tanzania stars in this martial arts horror hybrid. When a demonic force is unleashed in the NYC subway, a kung fu master is the city’s only hope. It’s Harlem vs Hell in this gritty grindhouse gem.