Marilyn Coleman, born in Philadelphia, began her acting career in Los Angeles after moving there in 1966. She is known for her roles in cult classics like Willie Dynamite (1973), where she brings depth to the gritty narrative of the urban underworld, and Which Way Is Up? (1977), a comedic exploration of identity and social issues. With a career spanning over 45 years, Coleman has made significant contributions to both film and television, cementing her place in the realm of exploitation and cult cinema.
Which Way Is Up?
When he falls into a union action by mistake, Leroy Jones is laid off from his job picking oranges. The only option given to find work to provide for his wife Annie Mae, their kids, and his father Rufus, is to leave them behind and go to Los Angeles, where more jobs are available. While he is away, Leroy becomes smitten with Vanetta, a beautiful labor activist. When he returns home, he has to juggle his wife, his new romance with Vanetta, and his new job. Meanwhile, the Reverend Lenox Thomas takes advantage of Leroy's absence to cavort with Annie Mae, leading Leroy to take revenge with the reverend's wife.
