A few decades have passed since the ‘80s ended, and yet it remains a staple of nostalgia-based content. All movies and TV shows address the decade of slasher films, Madonna, and glam rock as the one that’s worth revisiting. It may be a generational thing, but in any case, all generations always find a way to connect with a lifestyle that not many have experienced. The ‘80s are still alive more than ever, and movies like New Jack Fury are the proof.
But make no mistake. New Jack Fury is no Stranger Things. It doesn’t have a pinch of the Netflix behemoth’s production value. This one is made with passion by someone with access to a green screen, very good friends, and unlimited inspiration. Still, if you’re into B-movies that hold no punches, then this one could be up your alley.
New Jack Fury follows Dylan Gamble, an undercover cop who has fallen from grace and he’s no longer part of the force. His attempt at taking down the Styles Syndicate ended in nothing. But now his girlfriend Tanisha has been kidnapped by the Syndicate, and he must do whatever possible to save her. Gamble is joined by Hendrix Moon and Leslie Kindall, two colorful characters who hate each other, and they come together to help the former police officer. It’s a basic premise that fuels an entirely bonkers movie.
New Jack Fury is a blaxploitation spectacle that doesn’t ever deny what it actually is. It’s an action comedy with ridiculous characters, ridiculous dialogue and ridiculous effects. An execution of an idea powered by computer engines that can produce a fake background and terrible special effects. Nevertheless, if you connect to it, you’ll forget about the questionable production value and cheer for the psychedelic feature. It’s an over-the-top approach designed for those who love “so bad they’re good” movies and ‘80s pop culture.
This ‘80s nostalgia extravaganza even comes with a few commercials for fake products. In the vein of Saturday Night Live’s classic fake commercials, New Jack Fury’s “show” includes hilarious commercials for sugary drinks, hemorrhoid creams, computers and more. It also features some news pieces that will crack you up as an anchor promises the news show will try to justify why Black people use washcloths during showers. Director Lanfia Wal is pretty sure of the project he’s presenting and, fortunately, he goes all the way in using the juice of his very original vision. The commercials are not the only ‘80s trope that has a presence in the movie. Wal shows his love for the decade with a beautiful video game sequence in which the heroes fight the bad people in pure Double Dragon style.
This is B-movie madness. One that specifically takes place in an ‘80s-based setting that doesn’t restrict itself to vocabulary and fashion. There are enough homages here to make a list and laugh out loud at the preposterous nature of Wal. Once you get past the cheesy effects and green screen set, you will have an opportunity to dismiss New Jack Fury or celebrate the intention of someone who’s clearly fascinated by the decade of Michael Jackson, synthpop, and neon lights.
Film critic. Lover of all things horror. Member of the OFCS. RT Approved Critic.
