A good parody film uses pop culture references and zingy one-liners to amuse the audience. A great one can satirize a genre while still telling an original story, and by bringing the audience into the joke using smart, sharp, tongue-in-cheek references. This month, XFINITY On Demand™ will feature two great films that successfully spoofed the Western and Blaxploitation genres of the past: “Blazing Saddles” and “I’m Gonna Git You Sucka.” Check out the synopses and tune in!

“Blazing Saddles” – In Mel Brooks’ satirical Western comedy, a corrupt political kingpin tries to ruin a town by appointing a Black sheriff (played by Cleavon Little), who quickly becomes his rival. A little-known fact: Comedian Richard Pryor came up with the character of “Mongo.”

“I’m Gonna Git You Sucka” – In this Blaxploitation parody, Jack Spade (Keenen Ivory Wayans) brings together former Black heroes from the ’70s, such as Jim Brown and Isaac Hayes, to help him get revenge on the villainous Mr. Big (John Vernon). A little-known fact: A television sequel was created called “Hammer, Slammer, & Slade,” though it was never picked up. Actor Eriq LaSalle took on the character of Jack Spade instead of Keenen.

XFINITY On Demand™ is currently featuring “Blazing Saddles,” “I’m Gonna Git You Sucka” and other great comedies. Learn more and join the celebration of Black entertainment at xfinity.com/celebrateblacktv.

Editor’s Note: Shadow and Act partnered with XFINITY to celebrate Black entertainment. Be sure to visit xfinity.com/celebrateblacktv, a unique digital community built around the love of Black TV, film, sports, music and more. Shadow and Act hopes to enrich this community and provide a launching pad for insightful discussion. Look to Shadow and Act for features and content examining and exploring key themes and topics that run throughout the history of Black entertainment.