A Piece of the Action

A Piece of the Action from 1977 is a delightful comedy crime caper featuring an impressive ensemble cast, including Sidney Poitier, Bill Cosby, and a cameo by James Earl Jones. This all-star film showcases the delightful rapport between Cosby and Poitier, complemented by a rich tapestry of supporting characters. The film expertly blends light-hearted humor, intense action, and emotional depth, exploring the never-dull element of heists alongside the earnest endeavor to generate change in disadvantaged communities.

Sidney Poitier, the first African-American to win an Academy Award for Best Actor, is not only a lead actor in the movie but also the film's director. Known for his versatile roles and unique ability to portray multifaceted characters, Poitier smoothly transitions from playing comedic roles to serious characters— a skill he features in A Piece of the Action. Cosby, always an engaging screen presence, also alternates between humorous and intense scenes, evoking laughter and sympathy alike throughout the film.

Set in the bustling cityscape, the story primarily follows two small-time hustlers, Dave Anderson (Bill Cosby) and Manny Durrell (Sidney Poitier), as they are blackmailed into shaping up the neighborhood's misguided youth. These street-savvy con-men are caught up in the middle of a high-end heist while they attempt to straighten out their lives.

Poitier portrays the character of Manny, a sophisticated, smart, and creative gentleman who uses his wit to come out on top of any situation. Cosby, on the other hand, plays Dave, a charming character with a quick and quirky sense of humor. Their unforgettable partnership brings out an admirable camaraderie that's reflected in most of their scenes together. The duo's chemistry is infectious, bolstering an already gripping narrative.

Caught in a whirl of events, Manny and Dave are targeted by a mysterious figure wielding influence from the shadows. Instead of facing a jail sentence, they can pay back their past misdeeds by serving an unrecognized yet powerful force, powerful enough to leverage their past for a 'piece of the action’. Challenged to harness their street smarts and cunning into a noble cause, they find themselves managing a local community center as they attempt to reform juvenile delinquents and underprivileged kids — their journey traced with hilarious quips and heartfelt scenes.

However, the apprehension around the looming heist never leaves the subtext, pitching Dave and Manny against a seemingly insurmountable task. Using the backdrop of this impending heist, the film incorporates serious themes around social inequality, lack of opportunities for marginalized people, and the potential within the youth.

James Earl Jones, renowned for his deep baritone voice and dramatic prowess, makes an unforgettable cameo in the film. While his screen time might be brief, Jones brings weight and gravitas with his exceptional performance, piquing the tensions and drawing viewers further into this layered and engaging narrative.

The film’s charm lies in its light-hearted commentary on societal issues. With their irresistible charisma and distinct styles, Poitier and Cosby make an unlikely yet fascinating pair – their dynamic highlighted in their comedic timing and astounding on-screen chemistry.

A Piece of the Action, while rooted in humor and entertaining dynamics, also explores weighty topics, maintaining a fine balance between the stark realities of the characters’ lives and the need to offer moments of lighthearted respite. This balance, combined with strong performances from the entire cast, add depth to an otherwise comedic crime caper.

Beyond its key characters and plot, the film's humor, music, and dialogue all contribute to a charming cinematic experience. The late-70s soundtrack, boasting an R&B and funky flavor, is another intriguing element that adds to the overall storytelling, enhancing the mood and emotion elicited by different scenes.

Turning expectations of a usual crime caper on its head, A Piece of the Action offers a meaningful yet entertaining narrative, with endearing performances by Cosby and Poitier. Furthermore, it draws a solid foundation from its real-world societal context, adding to its overall appeal – a memorable film that blends humor, wit, and societal critique in an incredible cinematic experience.