Dracula's soul brotha is back; craving young bodies and lusting for hot blood! Scream, Blacula, Scream!

Despite its unfortunate title, Scream, Blacula, Scream from Director Bob Kelljan (Count Yorga, Vampire) is a very good entry in the vampire sub-genre. It boasts an impressive script from Joan Torres, Raymond Koenig, and Maurice Jules, and succeeds in furthering 'Mamauwalde's' (Blacula) story without sacrificing quality simply to cash in on the success of its predecessor. Once again featuring the considerable talent of William Marshall, Director Kelljan has woven an even more interesting story for the follow up to William Crain's original 1972 picture, Blacula.

Many people avoid seeing this film based upon its title alone and this is a shame, Marshall was without a doubt one of the most effective vampires to ever take a bite out of the silly seventies! His screen presence was and is, undeniable. Opposite the always mighty Pam Grier as Voodoo priestess 'Lisa', Marshall brings breeding and dignity to a character you would expect to laugh at. Beginning his film career in 1952 Marshall appeared as 'King Dick' in the film Lydia Bailey opposite screen legend Anne Francis. He worked steadily after this and never disappointed whether it was in features such as The Boston Strangler, or appearing on the small screen as a guest on shows like Bonanza, BBC Sunday Night Theater, Rawhide and Star Trek just to name a few. Sadly Marshall passed away on the 11th of June, 2003 from complications stemming from Alzheimer's. The world lost one of its great actors but you can still see his exemplary work in films such as this.

Beginning with the death of a powerful Voodoo priestess, the film opens as followers mourning their leaders death, are faced with choosing her successor. The priestess's son 'Willis' (Richard Lawson) feels the deal is sealed in his favor but is shocked to discover that cult members prefer buxom, level headed 'Lisa' (Grier) instead. Vowing revenge, Willis reaches out to a fellow disgruntled ex-cult member 'Ragman' (Bernie Hamilton) to assist in usurping Lisa. Ragman supplies Willis with all he needs and before you know it Blacula (Marshall) himself has been resurrected and is soon on the streets dealing death and eternal damnation to those unfortunate enough to cross his path. As the bodies pile up police suspect the cults new priestess.

Basically a retooling of Dracula, SBS sees Blacula taking up residence at the home of Willis as he attempts to discover a way of overcoming his vampirism. After setting up shop Blacula attends a party where he first encounters luscious Lisa. After a lengthy discussion of African artifacts, Mamauwalde realizes Lisa just may possess the knowledge that will release him from his curse. I don't know about you but Pam Grier frees me of many things! Inhibitions, pants, and self control for starters!

There isn't a wasted moment here and the combination of Marshall and Grier's screen presence gives rise to my contention that this sequel is the exception that proves the rule, outshining the original. The kills are creepy, well staged, and where you expect camp you get nothing but pure vamp! I was hard pressed finding any deficiencies in this production. The dialogue is natural and convincing and the onscreen chemistry flows throughout the entire cast. Many younger viewers may find the film a bit hokey in all of its early seventies glory but given a chance I think you'll see what I'm talking about regarding the quality.