In recent years, straightforward comedy movies have become rare. Studios have found that these films no longer draw major box office numbers like they did in the mid-2000s. Although this makes financial sense, it’s a shame since such films give stand-up comedians a chance to showcase their acting skills. For Kevin Hart, the 2015 film Get Hard, where he starred alongside comedy legend Will Ferrell, stands out as a prime example.
Kevin Hart appeared in several comedies around the release of Get Hard, including Central Intelligence, Ride Along, and The Wedding Ringer. However, his frequent appearances in comedies led to a reputation for starring in low-brow, average movies. This likely contributed to Get Hard receiving harsh reviews from critics, resulting in a low 28 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Get Hard was written and directed by Etan Cohen, who made his directorial debut with the film. Cohen, known for his work on Men In Black 3, found success with Get Hard but faced a major setback with his next film, Holmes & Watson, which failed spectacularly and affected his career. Despite this, Cohen is set to direct an upcoming film titled Mandrake the Magician, starring Sacha Baron Cohen, according to IMDb.
The cast of Get Hard includes several talented performers alongside Kevin Hart and Will Ferrell. These include Alison Brie, Ron Funches, Dan Bakkedahl, rapper Tip ‘T.I.’ Harris, and Craig T. Nelson from Young Sheldon. The film follows a wealthy white finance broker, played by Ferrell, who is arrested by the FBI for fraud and embezzlement. Despite his confidence in being found innocent, he is sentenced to ten years in the dangerous San Quentin State Penitentiary.
Ferrell’s character befriends a black car wash owner, played by Hart, while awaiting incarceration. Ferrell’s character, though kind-hearted, displays casual racism by stereotyping the car wash owner as having prison experience. Hart’s character, who has never been to prison, accepts $30,000 to teach Ferrell how to “get hard” and survive in San Quentin.
Throughout the film, the duo engage in various hardening techniques, including simulated riots, gang exposure, and drills on avoiding assaults from other inmates. Although Get Hard was never intended to win any major awards, it offers a carefree and entertaining watch, especially for college students looking for a fun movie on a weeknight. Kevin Hart’s performance is a highlight and one of the funniest in his career.
Fans of Kevin Hart can stream Get Hard on Max. For the perfect viewing experience, consider having a Wall Street Journal and a drink by your side.
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