We Need More Black Vampires - Ganja and Hess (1973) spoiler-free review

Image Courtesy of BlackListedCulture

Happy Tuesday, Horror Fans! If anyone is having withdrawals after seeing Sinners, I am right there with you. This week, in keeping with the vampire theme, I looked into movies on Tubi that highlight black vampire stories. This is when I found Ganja and Hess, a 1973 horror vampire movie. 

This film follows Dr Hess Green as he is researching Myrthians, an ancient African nation of blood drinkers. During his research, he is transformed into a vampire after being stabbed with an ancient dagger. After his transition, Hess begins to isolate himself. Only going out to hunt for food or the occasional church service. 

Other circumstances lead Ganja to Hess's home, where the two fall in love. Hess, desperate for companionship, marries Ganja and then turns her into a vampire. We then watch as the two try and navigate their new relationship and lifestyle. Ganja has a difficult time with killing people and seems more resistant to her new life. 

Ganja and Hess is an erotic, dreamlike story that captivated me from the beginning. With a run time of just under two hours, this will fill part of the whole left by Sinners. Ganja and Hess focuses on themes of addiction and identity through a vampire lens. I will say this is not a traditional horror film with jump scares and loads of gore. This focuses more on existential dread and the pain that comes with immortality. 

Ganja and Hess is considered a landmark in black horror. It moves away from the typical blacksploitation films of the time period. If you enjoyed Sinners, I would definitely recommend queuing this up. Additionally, if you are a fan of Only Lovers Left Alive, then give this a watch. 

8 out of 10 Screams