The Muthers (1976) Movie Review

Here we have another low budget exploitation film, this time a Phillipino production directed by Cirio H. Santiago (TNT Jackson, Firecracker, Silk, Naked Vengeance, Angelfist). Released in 1976 and starring Jeannie Bell, Rosanne Katon, Trina Parks and Jayne Kennedy. While sometimes considered a blaxploitation film it lacks the urban aspect but has some of the other requirements.

The Muthers rose to prominence soon after Quentin Tarantino called it one of his favorite films. It was also one of the films featured in the documentary Machete Maidens Unleashed (2010), about the exploitation productions of the country. It's also known for being one of the rare action pictures with black female leads. Making it a noteworthy cult film, probably more seen in recent times than ever before.

Two modern day female pirates, Kelly (Jean Bell) and Angie (Rosanne Katon) operate in the South Seas, stealing from tourists and other ships. Sandra, Kelly's sister, is captured and taken to the dangerous Monteiro Plantation, where the inmates face cruel and ruthless treatment. Now the two leading ladies have to use their crew and dangerous abilities in order to get Sandra out of that hellhole.

With super cool action sequences, a solid sense of rhythm, a captivating premise and rough yet pleasant performances The Muthers is simply a very tender and no-frills flick. The type of cinema that solves everything with a good fist fight and a shootout. In fact, by the end there's nothing but people shooting and being shot.

The main actresses look beautiful and are quite photogenic, their performances are also charismatic, giving the characters vivid personalities and they all inhabit a rich world of their own. I think the fun/funny conversations the characters have also add a lot to the experience, the plotline may be bare bones, but the sharp dialogue and the organic acting make it refreshing and enjoyable to watch.

The direction is a bit still and dry for some of it, there aren't many fancy camera tricks, framings or compositions, but it more than makes up for it with the constant action and the fast moving editing that gives the film a good rhythm. A bit basic but reliable and digestible in every way. 

The settings are rich and full of life, very solid locations that might feel a bit redundant or familiar if you have seen the Women In Prison movies Roger Corman produced. I will say, this one is a bit more heavy on the liberating action and about the same regarding their women's lib attitude.

There are also some brutal scenes that won't really put anyone away if they know that this is an exploitation film, but that might shock some viewers if they are new to this type of film. It's sleazy and crude but we can't expect any less from a grindhouse movie, it also never undermines the women in any fashion. That's a plus in the field.

Recommended for those looking for a cheap but somewhat clever action movie from the seventies. No holds barred and nothing but camp.