Review: The Harder They Fall

Last modified date

“The Harder They Fall” is a 2021 cinematic experience. It is a cross between your traditional Western, and an action film; constantly providing the audience with entertaining anecdotes. The film consists of a memorable cast, with predominantly well-known Black actors. It is an authentic homage, with some real-life historical influences. The film uses well-scored, upbeat musical tracks to pivot from one scene to another, intertwining its intricate plot.

The plot explores the lives of Nat Love (Jonathan Majors) and Rufus Buck (Idris Elba), and each of their band of outlaws who embark on an adventure of reckless gunslinging, dramatic horse-riding, and choreographed fighting, across the desert landscape. The narrative’s main focus however, is on Nat Love, who is determined to enact his life-long vendetta against his adversary Rufus Buck, who killed his parents many years earlier.

Currently the film is featured on Netflix, but as you see the character development unfolding and the detailed imagery, it is as though you are transported through time; immersed in the environment of ‘The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly’. It is unfortunate though that the film is only available online, when the director, Jeymes Samuel, does such a fantastic job at forming a well-rounded narrative that highlights the importance of Black individuals in this genre. He portrays each colourfully framed shot in a dramatic storyline that is evidently destined for the big screen. “The Harder They Fall” is an excellent film, with a title that alludes to viewers believing that once they see the movie, ‘the harder they will fall’ for it.  

More info & links:

  • Director: Jeymes Samuel
  • Cast: Jonathan Majors, Idris Elba, Zazie Beetz, Regina King, Delroy Lindo, Lakeith Stanfield, RJ Cyler, Danielle Deadwyler, Edi Gathegi, Deon Cole
  • Official Website
  • IMDB
  • The Harder They Fall is available on Netflix

Catharine Horsley

Film Reviewer

Catharine Horsley is a film studies graduate from Carleton University, who is addicted to the cinema. She is very passionate about art, photography, and filmmaking. Her dream is to become a screenwriter or film critic. When Catharine isn’t watching movies, she finds joy in reading, writing, painting, and cooking.