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Crime Cult Classic

Willie Dynamite struts through 1970s Manhattan, chasing the top spot in the city’s illicit trade.

WILLIE DYNAMITE

Chicks, Chumps, he uses 'em all.

1973 · 1h 42m · R · Crime / Drama · IMDB TMDB

Willie Dynamite is a pimp who operates in New York City. Willie was a big success as a pimp, but now, just as fast as he rose to the top, he has hit bottom. A former prostitute who has become a social worker tries to get Willie to clean up his life while it is still possible.

Quick Answer

What is Willie Dynamite about?

Willie Dynamite is a 1973 American crime drama directed by Gilbert Moses about a flamboyant New York City pimp struggling to maintain his status while a former prostitute turned social worker urges him and his women to leave the life.

Programmer's Pick

Decked out in purple and attitude, Willie Dynamite is blaxploitation with a side of social conscience. Watch for the flamboyant costuming and Martha Reeves’ title track—this film doesn’t just walk into Manhattan, it struts.

— SassyFlix Programmer

Overview

The film opens with Willie Dynamite, a larger-than-life pimp, cruising his purple Cadillac through Manhattan’s bustling streets. Willie oversees a diverse group of seven women, each dressed in vibrant outfits and hustling the upscale hotel circuit frequented by businessmen and conventioneers. Willie's operation is all about control and ambition—he dreams of becoming New York City's top pimp, even as competitors and law enforcement close in. Into this world steps Cora, a former prostitute turned social worker, determined to help Willie’s women escape the cycle of exploitation. The setup promises a clash between Willie’s fiercely capitalist dreams and the possibility of redemption, all set against the colorful, kinetic backdrop of 1970s New York.

Details & Specs

Director
Gilbert Moses
Writers
Joe Keyes, Ron Cutler
Release
1973
Runtime
1h 42m
Country
United States of America
Language
English
Genres
Crime, Drama
Also Known As
Willie Dinamita, Вилли Динамит

Why This Matters

This was the first film produced by the Zanuck-Brown Company, marking the production debut of a company that would go on to have further impact in the industry.
— SassyFlix Curator

Cast & Crew

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Director: Gilbert Moses Writers: Joe Keyes +1 more

Why Cult

Flamboyant Pimp Style

Willie’s wardrobe and his purple Cadillac are showcases of 1970s fashion and blaxploitation excess.

Martha Reeves Title Song

The film opens with Martha Reeves singing 'Willie Dynamite,' setting the scene for the swagger and spectacle to come.

Social Worker Showdown

Cora, a former prostitute turned social worker, challenges Willie’s control and brings a moral counterpoint to the crime drama.

New York City 1970s

The city itself is a character, with midtown hotels, conventions, and street hustle captured in vivid detail.

Scene Gallery

Questions from the Vault

Who directed Willie Dynamite? +

Willie Dynamite was directed by Gilbert Moses.

How long is Willie Dynamite? +

Willie Dynamite has a runtime of 102 minutes.

What genre is Willie Dynamite? +

Willie Dynamite is a crime drama film.

Where can I watch Willie Dynamite? +

Willie Dynamite is available to stream on SassyFlix.

Trailers & Clips