The Harder They Fall

Movie Trailer

Release Date
October 22, 2021 (limited theaters)
November 3, 2021 (Netflix)

Genre
Western, Action, Drama

Cast & Crew

• Jonathan Majors as Nat Love
• Idris Elba as Rufus Buck
• Zazie Beetz as Stagecoach Mary
• Regina King as Trudy Smith
• LaKeith Stanfield as Cherokee Bill
• Delroy Lindo as Bass Reeves
• Edi Gathegi as Bill Pickett
• Danielle Deadwyler as Cuffee
• RJ Cyler as Jim Beckwourth

Director
Jeymes Samuel

Other Movies Director is Known For

• They Die by Dawn (2013)

Producer
Jeymes Samuel, Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, James Lassiter, Lawrence Bender

Writer
Jeymes Samuel, Boaz Yakin

Budget
Estimated at $90 million

Production Company
Netflix, Overbrook Entertainment, 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks

Running Time
139 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Strong violence
• Language
• Some sexual content

Movie Story
The Harder They Fall is a stylish and action-packed Western that reimagines the genre through a fresh lens, featuring a predominantly Black cast and a story inspired by real historical figures from the Old West. Directed by Jeymes Samuel, the film combines the classic elements of Westerns with a modern sensibility, delivering a story of revenge, justice, and redemption.

The film centers on Nat Love (Jonathan Majors), an outlaw with a personal vendetta against the notorious Rufus Buck (Idris Elba). As a child, Nat witnessed Rufus and his gang brutally murder his parents, leaving him with a deep-seated desire for revenge. Years later, Nat learns that Rufus has been freed from prison and immediately sets out to hunt him down.

To achieve his goal, Nat assembles a crew of skilled gunslingers, including his former lover Stagecoach Mary (Zazie Beetz), sharpshooter Bill Pickett (Edi Gathegi), quick-draw Jim Beckwourth (RJ Cyler), and the loyal Cuffee (Danielle Deadwyler). Together, they embark on a mission to bring Rufus and his gang to justice.

Rufus, however, is not without his own formidable allies, including the ruthless Trudy Smith (Regina King) and the deadly Cherokee Bill (LaKeith Stanfield). As the two sides prepare for an inevitable showdown, the film delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the blurred lines between hero and villain.

The Harder They Fall is a dynamic mix of action, drama, and Western tropes, with intense shootouts, horseback chases, and tense standoffs. The film’s narrative is driven by its complex characters, each of whom has their own motivations and backstory, adding depth to the high-stakes conflict. The story builds towards a climactic and explosive confrontation, offering twists and revelations that keep the audience engaged until the very end.

Special Effects
The film’s special effects and practical stunts are central to its high-octane action sequences. The shootouts and fight scenes are choreographed with precision, making full use of the Western setting. The cinematography, with its vibrant color palette and sweeping landscapes, enhances the visual impact of the film, blending the grandeur of classic Westerns with a modern aesthetic. The soundtrack, which blends contemporary music with the genre’s traditional sounds, also plays a key role in setting the tone and elevating the action.

Box Office Performance
The Harder They Fall was released on Netflix, where it became a hit, drawing significant viewership and sparking widespread discussion. The film was praised for its bold take on the Western genre, its strong performances, and its stylish direction. While not released widely in theaters, the film’s success on the streaming platform highlighted its broad appeal and impact, particularly within the context of the resurgence of interest in Westerns with a diverse cast.

Filming Locations

• Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA
• Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA

Notable Quotes

• “I don’t particularly enjoy violence. That being said, you are currently in the company of extremely violent individuals.” – Nat Love
• “I got fast hands.” – Jim Beckwourth
• “There ain’t no salvation for people like us.” – Rufus Buck

Behind-the-Scenes
Director Jeymes Samuel, who is also a musician, brought a unique vision to The Harder They Fall, blending his love for Westerns with a desire to tell a story centered on Black characters, who have often been marginalized in the genre. Samuel’s collaboration with producer Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter added a musical dimension to the film, with an eclectic soundtrack that includes original songs and modern tracks that complement the action on screen. The film’s cast, which features some of the most prominent Black actors working today, was widely praised for their performances, with many noting the chemistry and dynamic interactions between the characters.

Awards

• Won the BAFTA Award for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director, or Producer (Jeymes Samuel)
• Nominated for the Critics’ Choice Movie Award for Best Acting Ensemble
• Nominated for NAACP Image Awards, including Outstanding Motion Picture and Outstanding Supporting Actress (Regina King)

Final Verdict
The Harder They Fall is a bold and exhilarating Western that brings new life to the genre with its diverse cast, stylish direction, and gripping story. With standout performances, particularly from Jonathan Majors, Idris Elba, and Regina King, the film offers a thrilling and thought-provoking experience. Whether you’re a fan of classic Westerns or looking for a fresh take on the genre, The Harder They Fall delivers with both action and substance, making it a must-watch film.

IMDb Rating
6.6/10