(pictured- Lork from Da Honey House and Mr. Rudy Ray Moore.)
70’s exploitation filmmaker, actor, and comedic genius, Rudy Ray Moore passes away at 81. Best known for his character Dolemite, Mr. Moore was also a legend in Hip Hop circles. In many ways, he was one of the first rappers. Edgy rhymes delivered within his films and on stage made him a favorite up until his death. Although many people only know about Mr. Moore’s comedic side, he was inspirational because he was able to write, direct, and produce his films outside of traditional film industry circles. He did this against all odds.
More so than any other film presence, he exemplified the spirit and attitude of the original Hip Hop movement. On the big screen, Moore portrayed a character that today many rappers emulate in songs, videos and even within their personas. Dolemite was brash, flashy, street savvy, outspoken and full of pizzazz. He dressed jiggy before the term existed. He took no shorts from anyone, and had the attention of all the ladies. Regardless of the similarities to today’s rap scene, this fictitious character’s image had much less in common with Hip Hop, than the real man did. Mr. Moore was able to overcome adversity by creating his own brand of humor and art, and delivering it to the masses. He did this without the assistance of the system, and in many ways, in spite of it. In the early days, he would go into a town, pitch to theater operators, book his film for later in that week, deliver the print, and then visit as many radio shows as would have him, to promote the film’s showing. Ultimately, Moore and his movies have garnered massive attention, and for decades have continued to gain in popularity. He was able to accomplish all of this, outside of the traditional Hollywood structure. Mr. Moore will continue to be an icon, and an inspiration to many.
