Born in 1948 in New York City, Azizi Johari emerged as a notable figure in the 1970s and 1980s cult cinema scene. Known for her roles in McQ (1974) and Body and Soul (1981), she brought a distinct flair to the screen, often embodying characters that challenged the norms of her time. Johari's background as a Playmate of the Month in 1975 and her experiences touring with Sammy Davis, Jr. added layers to her artistic persona, making her contributions to exploitation and grindhouse films significant in the broader context of genre cinema.
Body and Soul
Based on the 1947 classic of the same name, this "entertaining" (The New York Times) rags-to-riches tale about a vivacious young fighter from Chicago pulls no punches in its portrayal of boxings dark side. Featuring the always-animated Muhammad Ali as himself, Body and Soul is "a rousing good time" (LA Herald-Examiner)! Golden Gloves champ Leon (Leon Isaac Kennedy) has no interest in becoming a pro boxer; instead, he wants to be a doctor. But when his little sister requires immediate and expensive medical treatments, he decides to go for the title and all the money it will bring. On his way to the top, however, Leon succumbs to the temptations that come with success: money, flesh, ego. As a result, he begins to lose everyone and everything he used to care about. Can Leon pull his life back together, or is he too far gone to be redeemed?
