Man Alive: Xploitation

About This Movie

So, 'Man Alive: Xploitation' is this quirky BBC doc from '75 that takes a real deep dive into the world of exploitation films, which is kind of wild for its time. The pacing feels very much like a late-night chat with your eccentric uncle who's seen it all. You get Pete Walker and David McGillivray talking shop, alongside some interesting characters—there’s even a woman who never wears knickers which adds a cheeky layer to the whole vibe. It’s a mixed bag of interviews and insights that really highlights the shift in filmmaking mentality from docs to the grittier side of cinema. You get a feel for 70s British culture and the rawness of the genre, which is pretty distinct in its own right.

This documentary is quite a rarity in the collector's circuit, often overshadowed by more mainstream titles yet holds a unique place due to its candid exploration of film exploitation. As for formats, it’s mostly available on VHS or some niche DVD releases, making it a bit tricky to find. Its scarcity and unique content attract a specific type of collector who appreciates the evolution of genre filmmaking, particularly from the 70s British perspective.