Movie Review: Hammer (1972)
Synopsis: Dockworker B. J. Hammer is fired from his job after getting into a fight and soon after, is recruited by a local crime boss who wants to sponsor him as a professional boxer. Hammer quickly rises through the ranks but then learns he is expected to throw a fight. If he refuses, his girlfriend, Lois, will pay with her life. Who's in it? The movie stars Fred Williamson, Bernie Hamilton, Vonetta McGee, Charles Lampkin and Elizabeth Harding. Review: I came across Hammer on ScreenPix this morning and, while I'm not usually into blaxploitation films, the plot sounded intriguing enough to give it a try. After watching it, I can say it was a good choice but fell short of being a great one. I'll start out with the positives. For one, Hammer (Williamson) is an intriguing character and I'm a little surprised this didn't become a film franchise as a result. He had a good mix of toughness and intelligence, making it clear he didn't trust the crime boss, Big Sid (...