Hardcore Henry

If you want science fiction that respects its own premise, Hardcore Henry is available in the US on Amazon Prime Video and Philo, and in the UK on Amazon Prime Video right now. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. A 6/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Andrey Dementyev sets the tone, and the world-building does the rest. Available now on Amazon Prime Video — press play and find out why people keep recommending it.

Part of the current wave of titles people are actually watching, Hardcore Henry earns its spot. What makes Hardcore Henry work is that the ideas never crowd out the people having them. Henry, a newly resurrected cyborg who must save his wife/creator from the clutches of a psychotic tyrant with telekinetic powers, AKAN, and his army of mercenaries. Fighting alongside Henry is Jimmy, who is Henry's only hope to make it through the day. Hardcore Henry takes place over the course of one day, in Moscow, Russia. Andrey Dementyev and Sharlto Copley lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 2015. The rules of Hardcore Henry's world are consistent enough that the big swings never feel like cheating. It knows exactly what it is, and does not try to be anything else.

For late-night viewing or a proper weekend binge, Hardcore Henry fits the bill. It does not lean on comparisons to make its case. The complete film is available and best experienced without too much prior knowledge of where it goes. Andrey Dementyev grounds the bigger ideas in something human. Once you are in, you will want to talk about it.