BLOOD RANSOM Movie Poster – Ghanaian Hand-Painted Art 60.5" x 42.5"

This hand-painted Ghanaian movie poster for the 1988 film "Blood Ransom," also known as "Captive Rage," showcases the bold and colorful style unique to Ghana’s cinematic art tradition. With vibrant hues and dramatic depictions of key characters, the poster brings to life the intense themes of action and revenge embodied in the film. Hand-painted on recycled flour sack canvases, this poster reflects the resilience and artistry that Ghanaian posters are celebrated for.

Cultural and Artistic Significance

Ghanaian hand-painted movie posters like this one for "Blood Ransom" are not only pieces of cinematic memorabilia but also cultural artifacts with a rich history. Originating in the 1980s, these posters were created by local artists to promote mobile cinemas across rural areas in Ghana, often featuring creative and sometimes exaggerated scenes to draw in viewers. Painted on recycled flour sacks, these artworks are characterized by their unique textures and bold colors, tailored to survive Ghana’s climate while being displayed outdoors.

Each poster is individually crafted, allowing artists creative freedom to interpret and even amplify the film’s scenes, a practice that has rendered these works highly collectible and featured in art exhibits worldwide. This art form represents the resourcefulness and ingenuity of Ghanaian artists who, working with limited materials, produced striking and memorable advertisements for international and local films alike. While the mobile cinema tradition has waned, these posters remain symbols of a vibrant art scene that thrived on adaptability and creative expression.

Film Information

Blood Ransom (1988) - Also Known as "Captive Rage"

• Genre: Action, Drama
• Director: Cedric Sundstrom
• Main Cast: Oliver Reed, Robert Vaughn, Claudia Udy, Lisa Rinna
• Plot Summary: The film follows a gripping tale of revenge as a South American cocaine baron takes drastic measures when his son is arrested by the American DEA. Seeking retribution, he hijacks a plane carrying college students, including the daughter of the DEA chief, and threatens their lives unless his son is freed. With high-stakes action and themes of international conflict, "Blood Ransom" captivates audiences with its tension and drama.

This intense film, directed by Cedric Sundstrom, explores themes of vengeance, international crime, and the personal stakes of global enforcement conflicts. Its cast, led by Oliver Reed and Robert Vaughn, delivers compelling performances that amplify the film’s dark, action-packed narrative. Ghanaian hand-painted posters for such films preserve not only the story but also a piece of the vibrant and adaptive artistry unique to Ghana.