The Harder They Fall: A Review

Firstly I'd like to applaud the great casting. I loved how the movie captured the brilliance of each of the main actors without shining the spotlight on one character too much. My faves were definitely Cuffey and Nat Love. Someone said that Jonathan major's smirks could light up a new sun, and they were absolutely right. Danielle as Cuffey displayed the most amazing acting in my opinion. That role took her out of her comfort zone and she grabbed the opportunity to thrive.

Music and aesthetics have a huge impact on a flick. Personally my favourite scene in terms of aesthetics was the part where Mary was being led to Rufus Buck in Trudy's saloon. The blue lady dancing to Wednesday's Child was a touch of class. Even in the scene where Buck finally faces NAT love in that room. The aesthetic ruins. The music was intense, deep and true to the theme. I found the genre mix quite titillating. I especially loved the Fela Kuti song used for Trudy and Mary's fight scene.

The story was sound and refreshing. It didn't dwell too much on racism and slavery which tend to be the recurring themes in black American movies. Jeymes Samuel made it about the blacks outside white exploitation without completely ignoring that fact. The story is basically a man scarring his brother because of the sins of their father. I absolutely enjoyed the poetic ending. Rufus watching as his younger brother takes his revenge while he also takes his.

The legends, Regina King, Idris Elba lived up to their reputations. However I think the real stars were the new crop. Stellar performance by Jonathan Majors and the Nat Love gang. Absolutely loved the guy who was lightning with the blam blams. I'd love to see more of him in future. Lakeith did not disappoint either with his lackadaisical energy. Zazie Beets was alright, I am for the argument that a different actress would have been more appropriate for the role.

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