Hardcore Henry (7/26/2016)

Rated R for non-stop bloody brutal violence and mayhem, language throughout, sexual content/nudity and drug use.

Starring Sharlto Copley, Danila Kozlovsky, Haley Bennett and Tim Roth

Directed by Ilya Naishuller

This film is epitome of gratuitous.

Strap in. Hardcore is one of the most unflinchingly original wild-rides to hit the big screen in a long time: You remember nothing. Mainly because you’ve just been brought back from the dead by your wife (Haley Bennett). She tells you that your name is Henry. Five minutes later, you’re being shot at, your wife has been kidnapped, and you should probably go get her back. Who’s got her? His name’s Akan (Danila Kozlovsky); he’s a powerful warlord with an army of mercenaries, and a plan for world domination. You’re also in an unfamiliar city of Moscow, and everyone wants you dead. Everyone except for a mysterious British fellow called Jimmy (Sharlto Copley). He may be on your side, but you aren’t sure. If you can survive the insanity, and solve the mystery, you might just discover your purpose and the truth behind your identity. Good luck, Henry. You’re likely going to need it.

So if Hardcore Henry is filled with hardcore violence and other disturbing images, why would we subject ourselves to watch it? Because students are interested in this film. So I hope this review helps you if your child or student want to watch it.

The only positive thing about this movie is the creative way in which it was filmed. It’s like they strapped a GoPro to someone and let them loose. It was clever but after a while it really gave me a headache. And yes that’s the most positive thing I can say about the movie.

As far as the cast goes, I really like Sharlto Copley, but this role was really…I mean really, odd! I also liked the Tim Roth cameo…unfortunately it was just a cameo. Danila Kozlovsky was a new actor to me, and not necessarily my favorite. He tries to be creepy…but I think he tried too hard.

Hardcore Henry feels like there is no plot. Instead of a story arch, the script is structured around a bunch of five-minute missions — Go here! Grab this! Kill that guy! All of this comes from a “friend” named Jimmy who dies like 100 times but keeps coming back. He gets shot, barbecued, run over and never shuts up. There is also a villain with super hero powers that are never explained…and honestly I stopped caring.

Students may want to watch this movie, but it is pointless, extremely violent and completely gratuitous. Absolutely “Skip it.”

SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
No. This movie is filled with some of the goriest scenes of violence, plus nudity and strong language. This may look like a video game, but it is very difficult to watch.

CONVERSATION STARTER:

1. What is motivating Henry to endure such horrific injuries?


2. How much would you endure for someone you love?


3. The reality is, most of us will never be dropped from a plane or shot at 1000 times, but we may be asked to do something terribly difficult for another. Would you be willing to sacrifice what you want for someone else?

Read Philippians 2:3-4

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.


4. Spend time thinking of ways that you can put others ahead of yourself.