Big Bad Mama

In2Film have just released several DVDs under the main title ‘The Roger Corman Collection’. As the title suggests, each of the releases is a tribute to the legendary American director, whose countless movies include the original version of ‘Little Shop Of Horrors’ as well as his famous E.A. Poe adaptations starring Vincent Price.

The released titles are, however, not directed by Corman but produced by him. Nonetheless, each film has Corman written all over – from the camp sense of humour to explicit situations with plenty of bare flesh.

The first film of the collection is the hilariously pitch-black crime caper ‘Big Bad Mama’ (originally from 1974) starring Angie Dickinson in the title role. Angie plays Wilma McClatchie, a gangster’s moll who takes control of her boyfriend’s bootlegging business after he bites the dust. Together with her two young daughters (who learn faster than you can say ‘hands up’), she also takes control of her life. The trio embark on a madcap crime spree set in 30’s America. En route, Wilma is assisted by bank-robber Fred Diller (Tom Skerritt) and makes the acquaintance of one William J. Baxter (a young William Shatner fighting the law instead of Klingons). After a promising new ‘career’ as robbers and conmen par excellence, things take a nosedive when they kidnap a millionaire’s pretty daughter and hold her for ransom…
Directed by Steve Carver, ‘Big Bad Mama’ is non-stop action and simply a lot of fun. Neither dialogue nor plot will stretch your brain, but that is not the movie’s intention. Perfect for a great night in with your friends!