The dialog and locations are winners in this crime action drama that really isn't a full blaxploitation because most of the characters (villainous men, non-black women with jungle fever) are white: educated but pompous Britishers and shameless Americans. Bolt's reputation has got around, and as those who hire him find out, he can't be used or mislead.
The charismatic Fred Williamson could easily have made Bolt the black American James Bond, but he was smart to keep it a one-off, seeing that the quality of sequels was usually less than stellar. Bolt, for his single entry, gets to go to Portugal and Hong Kong, supposed to pick up a single parcel, and finds himself in a ton of danger. This creates some sad moments as it reunites him with gorgeous singer girlfriend Barbara McNair who sings several songs including Tom Jones' "She's a Lady".
The use of martial arts doesn't overwhelm the action so non-fans of the genre can appreciate the minimal footage. Here, story outweighs the action although the bad guys get some particularly gruesome endings. One in particular is cringe worthy, but considering whom he kills most satisfying, particularly how Williamson disposes of him. As this manages to accomplish its goal of intrigue and lavish scenery, I can highly recommend it even though I've seen many similar crime thrillers not much different than this.
The charismatic Fred Williamson could easily have made Bolt the black American James Bond, but he was smart to keep it a one-off, seeing that the quality of sequels was usually less than stellar. Bolt, for his single entry, gets to go to Portugal and Hong Kong, supposed to pick up a single parcel, and finds himself in a ton of danger. This creates some sad moments as it reunites him with gorgeous singer girlfriend Barbara McNair who sings several songs including Tom Jones' "She's a Lady".
The use of martial arts doesn't overwhelm the action so non-fans of the genre can appreciate the minimal footage. Here, story outweighs the action although the bad guys get some particularly gruesome endings. One in particular is cringe worthy, but considering whom he kills most satisfying, particularly how Williamson disposes of him. As this manages to accomplish its goal of intrigue and lavish scenery, I can highly recommend it even though I've seen many similar crime thrillers not much different than this.