SuperFly (2018) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
SuperFly (2018) is a modern remake of the 1972 blaxploitation classic Super Fly. Directed by Director X and starring Trevor Jackson, Jason Mitchell, and Michael K. Williams, this reimagining brings a fresh, stylish twist to the original tale of crime, ambition, and redemption. The film swaps the gritty streets of 1970s Harlem for the sleek, flashy backdrop of present-day Atlanta, turning a classic story into a neon-lit, trap music-infused spectacle.
The original Super Fly was renowned for its iconic Curtis Mayfield soundtrack and bold portrayal of a black anti-hero, making it a touchstone in American cinema. In contrast, the 2018 version attempts to modernize its themes while maintaining the essence of its predecessor.
This review will break down the film’s plot, performances, visual style, and where to watch it online.
Plot Summary
SuperFly centers on Youngblood Priest (Trevor Jackson), a slick and suave drug dealer with ambitions of leaving the drug game for good. Priest, unlike his peers, is calm and calculated. He doesn’t indulge in the chaos of the streets, instead working methodically to rise to the top while avoiding law enforcement and street violence. His mentor, Scatter (Michael K. Williams), taught him the ropes, and Priest now runs one of the most lucrative drug operations in Atlanta.
However, after a near-death experience during a confrontation with a rival gang member, Priest decides it’s time to leave the drug business once and for all. He plans one final, massive deal that will set him up for life. But escaping the drug world isn’t as easy as Priest hopes. He faces multiple threats, including the violent Snow Patrol gang, corrupt cops, and internal betrayals from those close to him.
As Priest navigates the treacherous waters of the criminal underworld, he must rely on his street smarts and alliances, including his loyal friend Eddie (Jason Mitchell) and his girlfriend Georgia (Lex Scott Davis). The film culminates in a series of intense confrontations, where Priest’s desire for freedom clashes with the realities of the violent world he’s trying to leave behind.
Direction and Cinematic Style
Director X, primarily known for his work in music videos, brings a highly stylized, music video-like aesthetic to SuperFly. The film is drenched in luxury—flashy cars, designer clothes, and opulent mansions serve as a visual representation of the high-stakes drug game that Priest dominates. The neon lighting and urban landscapes of Atlanta give the film a glossy, modern look that contrasts sharply with the grit of the original 1972 version.
The action scenes are slickly choreographed, and the soundtrack, featuring original music from hip-hop producer Future, sets the tone for much of the film’s energy. However, while the film is visually polished, it sometimes sacrifices depth for style. The plot moves at a rapid pace, and while it keeps viewers entertained, the characters and their motivations are sometimes overshadowed by the film’s emphasis on aesthetics.
That said, SuperFly excels in capturing the allure of the high life that the drug trade promises while also hinting at its dangers. Director X’s background in music videos serves the film well in terms of pacing and style, but the deeper themes of morality and redemption present in the original Super Fly don’t always resonate as strongly in this remake.
Performances
Trevor Jackson delivers a strong performance as Youngblood Priest, carrying the film with his cool charisma and controlled demeanor. Jackson’s Priest is less impulsive and more strategic than other drug dealer characters in modern crime films, which makes him compelling to watch. He’s methodical and calculated, with a quiet intensity that sets him apart from the flashy characters around him.
Jason Mitchell, as Priest’s best friend Eddie, brings an energetic and humorous counterbalance to Priest’s more reserved personality. Mitchell’s performance adds layers of loyalty and streetwise intelligence, providing some of the film’s lighter moments amid the tension.
Michael K. Williams, though in a smaller role as Scatter, delivers his usual gravitas. His portrayal of Priest’s mentor is short but memorable, adding weight to the idea that even those who seem to have control over the drug game can be vulnerable to its dangers.
Lex Scott Davis, as Georgia, and Andrea Londo, as Cynthia, provide solid supporting performances, though their characters primarily serve as love interests rather than fully fleshed-out roles. Still, their presence adds emotional stakes to Priest’s journey.
Themes and Social Commentary
At its core, SuperFly explores familiar themes of ambition, betrayal, and the pursuit of freedom. Priest’s desire to escape the drug world speaks to the broader theme of attempting to break free from a life of crime, and how difficult it can be to leave behind a lifestyle that promises wealth and power.
The film also comments on loyalty and friendship, especially through the dynamic between Priest and Eddie. While Priest is methodical and cautious, Eddie is more reckless, providing a contrast that mirrors the tensions inherent in their world.
Additionally, the film touches on corruption in law enforcement and systemic issues in society that push individuals into the drug trade. However, these themes are somewhat surface-level compared to the original Super Fly, which provided a more pointed critique of race, poverty, and the American Dream. The 2018 version is more focused on style and spectacle, with less attention paid to the socio-political undertones that were so integral to the original.
Criticism
While SuperFly is visually impressive and entertaining, it has faced criticism for being overly glossy and lacking the grit and substance of its predecessor. Some argue that the film glamorizes the drug trade more than it critiques it, which could be problematic in its portrayal of the consequences of such a lifestyle.
Moreover, while the action scenes and pacing are engaging, the film doesn’t delve deeply into the inner workings of its characters. As a result, the emotional weight of Priest’s struggle to escape his life of crime is sometimes lost in the flashiness of the film’s presentation.
Where to Watch SuperFly Online
Subscription Streaming Services
- Starz
SuperFly is currently available for streaming on Starz. This premium cable service allows subscribers to watch a variety of films and shows, including SuperFly. If you’re already subscribed, this is a good option for watching the film. - Hulu (with Starz add-on)
If you are a Hulu subscriber, you can access SuperFly by adding the Starz add-on to your subscription. This allows for seamless streaming of Starz content through Hulu’s platform.
Rental and Purchase Options
If you don’t have access to Starz, there are several platforms where you can rent or purchase SuperFly for streaming.
- Amazon Prime Video
Amazon offers SuperFly for both rental and purchase. You can rent the film for a 48-hour viewing period or purchase it for permanent access. The film is available in HD, ensuring you can enjoy its vivid visuals. - Apple TV
Apple TV allows users to rent or purchase SuperFly. This is a great option for those who prefer streaming through Apple devices or using the Apple TV app on smart TVs and other devices. - Google Play Movies
Google Play Movies offers SuperFly for rental or purchase. The platform is compatible with a wide variety of devices, including Android phones, tablets, and smart TVs. - YouTube Movies
YouTube Movies provides another option for renting or buying SuperFly. This platform allows you to stream the film across all devices that support YouTube, making it a convenient option for many users. - Vudu
Vudu offers SuperFly for both rental and purchase. The platform supports high-definition streaming on multiple devices, including gaming consoles, smart TVs, and mobile devices.
Conclusion
SuperFly (2018) offers a sleek and modern take on the 1972 original, with a focus on style, action, and visual flair. While it may lack the depth and social commentary of its predecessor, it succeeds as an entertaining crime thriller with charismatic performances, particularly from Trevor Jackson and Jason Mitchell. Director X’s music video-inspired aesthetic brings a unique energy to the film, making it a visually captivating watch, even if it doesn’t fully explore the moral complexities of its characters.
If you’re a fan of high-energy crime dramas with a modern twist, SuperFly is worth checking out. With several streaming and rental options available, it’s easy to access this neon-soaked remake from the comfort of your home.
