Sun Ra and his Solar Arkestra
Space is the Place (Plexifilm)
 
Intentionally created as a homage to the low-budget science fiction films of the 50's and 60's, 'Space....' became a visual embodiment of Sun Ra's Afro-Egyptian myth of salvation in outer space. The special effects, outrageous plot line and apocalyptic message harmonise with the otherworldly score and a climactic live performance by one of the most innovative and profound groups in jazz history.

After having traveled through space in a yellow spaceship propelled by music, Sun Ra finds a planet he believes could serve as a new home for the black race. Returning to earth, he lands in Oakland, California circa 1972 and has to battle The Overseer, played by Ray Johnson (from 1971's Dirty Harry), a supernatural villain exploiting the black people. The Overseer, the FBI, and NASA -- who are after Ra's Black Space Program -- attempt to assassinate Ra, who escapes into space with his followers before the destruction of Earth.

Cosmic blaxploitation cum sociological critique, 'Space....' defies categorization. It is at once a platform for Sun Ra's radical racial philosophies, an indictment of the government's policies in Vietnam-era U.S., cult camp flick, sci-fi movie and concert film with unforgettable performances by the Intergalactic Solar Arkestra.

Specs: 82 minutes, color, 16mm, 1.78:1 (original ratio)
Special Features: Original Director's Cut with over 20 minutes of restored footage, never-before-seen home movies of the Arkestra in Egypt, deluxe booklet with liner notes by Sun Ra biographer John Szwed, introduction by Sonic Youth's Thurston Moore and essay by director John Coney, 16x9 anamorphic transfer enhanced for widescreen televisions.