James Olson, born in 1930, made his mark in cult cinema with roles in Moon Zero Two (1969) and Wild Rovers (1971). His performance in The Mafu Cage (1978) showcases his ability to navigate complex characters within the realm of exploitation and psychological horror. With a background in stage acting in Chicago, Olson transitioned to film, bringing a unique intensity to his roles that resonates in the gritty landscapes of the films on SassyFlix. His contributions to this genre highlight the intersection of mainstream and cult cinema.
The Mafu Cage
Grant and Kane play a pair of incestuous sisters who live together in a house that is falling apart in the Hollywood Hills. Their house was formerly owned by their late anthropologist father. Ellen (Grant), an astronomer, tries her best to take care of Sissy (Kane), a mentally ill eccentric who enjoys keeping her pet "mafus" (apes) in a cage in their living room.[5] None of the mafus last long, given Sissy's violent outbursts.