I've been a huge Bronson fan for several years - who would have guessed? I'd go as far to say this is his second best film, the first being _Death Wish_ (1974), of course. Really a hidden gem.
Now, while the movie is a fun ride, the only problem is it has no destination. Bronson plays our lead character, Chaney, and we merely get a slice of his life. We don't know whence he came or where he is going. He's just there.
While the story is far from complex, I feel that too many details would take away from just viewing it, and it is worth a watch or two.
Basically, Chaney is a drifter who lands in Louisiana, where he quickly finds a bare-knuckle boxing fight, and uses it as a fast way to make some money. Turns out Chaney is tougher than a coffin nail. I'll leave it at that.
The movie reminded me a little of _Snatch_ (2001), which may have taken some inspiration from this.
Anyway, _Hard Times_ is very well made, in all areas, but one: the ending. Not a bad ending, per se, but I felt as if there needed to be higher stakes. It was too easy, to put it mildly. Maybe that will work better for some people, but not me.
That aside, still very good. What could have just been a goofy action movie about unsanctioned boxing, turns out to have compelling characters, a fast pace, and moments that truly allow for Bronson's signature man-of-few-words persona to shine.
Totally worth a watch for almost anyone, especially Bronson fans or fans of 1970s movies overall.