Two Detroit cops—one black, one white—chase $400,000 through political minefields and city streets.
DETROIT 9000
It's the murder capital of the world. And the biggest black rip-off of the decade.
After a fundraiser for a black politician is robbed, Detroit police put two detectives, one white and one black, on the case, who try to work together under boiling political pressure.
Quick Answer
Detroit 9000 is a 1973 American action, crime, and drama film directed by Arthur Marks about two detectives—one white, one black—tasked with investigating the high-stakes theft of $400,000 at a political fundraiser.
Programmer's Pick
Detroit 9000 isn’t just another buddy cop caper—it’s a street-level tour of 1970s Detroit, where racial politics and hard-boiled action collide. If you crave your crime dramas with a dose of blaxploitation flair and a suitcase full of double-crosses, this is your ticket.
— SassyFlix Programmer
Overview
Why This Matters
Originally marketed as a blaxploitation film, this 1973 action movie experienced a resurgence 25 years later through video, illustrating the enduring appeal and rediscovery of cult genre cinema.
Cast & Crew
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Why Cult
The film combines gritty police drama with the bold style and energy of 1970s blaxploitation cinema.
Bassett and Williams must bridge cultural divides as they hunt for the perpetrators, giving the film social bite and character-driven tension.
Set amid the political and racial complexities of Detroit, the city becomes a vivid character in its own right.
A $400,000 robbery at a political fundraiser sets the stage for shootouts, double-dealing, and relentless police work.
Scene Gallery
Threat File
Theft at political fundraiser
Robbers targeting campaign money
Political turmoil and criminal investigation
1970s Detroit
Questions from the Vault
When was Detroit 9000 released? +
Detroit 9000 was released in 1973.
Who directed Detroit 9000? +
Detroit 9000 was directed by Arthur Marks.
How long is Detroit 9000? +
Detroit 9000 has a runtime of 106 minutes.
What genre is Detroit 9000? +
Detroit 9000 is an action, crime, and drama film.
