Hard Times
Filmfest 2014
(Ein stahlharter Mann)
USA 1975
Original version
(Original: English)
Director: Walter Hill
Section: Retrospective - Walter Hill
A surprisingly arresting and tight film about illegal bare-knuckle fighting in Depression era New Orleans. Rather than open up the story with the type of pretentious moralising that bedevils the majority of American sporting and gambling films, this utilizes Bronson's limited range to produce a laconic, unemotional, almost Oriental celebration of the mythic fighting hero. Strong supporting performances, good locations, and well-staged fights contribute to what is an impressive example of how to assemble this kind of material.
CPe, Time Out, London
Cast: Charles Bronson, James Coburn, Jill Ireland, Strother Martin, Margaret Blye
Credits
Screenplay: Walter Hill, Bryan Gindoff, Bruce Henstell
Director of Photography: Philip H. Lathrop
Film Editor: Roger Spottiswoode
Composer: Barry De Vorzon
Costume Design: Jack Bear
Producer: Lawrence Gordon
Production Company: Columbia Pictures Corporation
World Sales: Park Circus Ltd.
Director: Walter Hill
