Review of Hardcore Henry (2015) by Marvin M — 21 Apr 2016

The movies that surprise you are the best. That's what Ilya Naishuller's first film Hardcore Henry does. I had no idea what to expect from it besides the fact it's shot POV style. The choice to go with the POV style is a questionable choice.

I still have PTSD flashbacks from the Doom disaster which hurt the the style. However, this movie can help the style. This movie would not be made without the style. The story would fall flat without it.

I thought it would feel more like a video game, but has more gopro feel than video game feel. The downfall of gopro and this movie is the headache/nausea factor. I would not suggest eating  before the movie.

There's a chance that food would be making another appearance. If you can make it through the fifteen minutes, you'll be fine. I did fight a headache during this movie. It was worth it. The pace of this movie is breakneck speed.

 It's a non-stop, action packed 96 minutes of fun. It doesn't have the lags of most action movies. I understand a lot of people don't like that. I love that kind of pace. Keeps you on the edge of  your seat.

Some of the editing is questionable. You'll see Henry chasing a dude down some stairs then it will jump to Henry running down the street. That's gets frustrating after a little, but it gets better throughout the movie.

Sharlto Copley is the best thing about this movie.  He said this was the most challenging role he has ever had. All the time and effort he put in was worth it. Most of the cast is filler, but that's usually true with action movies.

Akan is a great villain. He's basically the albino Lex Luthor and just as crazy. I wish Henry would talk, but it's not really needed. Hardcore Henry has become one of my favorite action movies.

It deserves a spot on your shelf.