Modern exploitation films need to do two things simultaneously to work in today’s film culture: capture the feel of the genre while keeping the tongue tucked firmly in the cheek. Black Dynamite succeeded, and so did Bitch Slap. They took the elements from the genre that worked and updated them for today’s tastes. Sugar Boxx presents itself as another entry in this typically low-budget tradition, and it certainly manages to throw in some sex and violence. In fact, when it comes to reproducing the structural authenticity of the films – having poor writing, cinematography, and acting – Sugar Boxx hits the nail on the head. Unfortunately, it never offers enough violence or sex, as per the suggested serving size typical of the genre, and thus the ridiculously low standards in the main tenets of filmmaking have nothing to redeem them.
Investigative reporter Valerie (Geneviere Anderson) goes undercover in an all-women’s prison to follow-up on reports of inmates receiving inordinately long sentences and being forced to serve as sexual escorts to some of the local judges and legal authorities. Due to the indignities suffered while undercover, and with a feeling of solidarity for the other women in the prison, Valerie returns once freed to lead a slaughter of the people responsible of the scandal.
It’s an exploitation film that suggests at the core (lack of) values that made the genre popular, rather than really going all out and ever indulging in them. There’s some nudity and some violence, but it’s never extreme enough to count as a solid entry in this filmic tradition.
DVD Bonus Features
A brief behind-the-scenes featurette and a short film starring the late Tura Satana (who makes a guest appearance in the film) are the only two extras.
"Sugar Boxx" is on sale March 15, 2011 and is rated R. Drama. Written and directed by Cody Jarrett. Starring Geneviere Anderson, Ellie Arket, Thela Brown, Rainbow Borden.
