Review:

The Harder They Come (1972)

overall review score: 4.5
score is between 0 and 5
The Harder They Come is a 1972 Jamaican crime film directed by Perry Henzell and starring Jimmy Cliff. It follows the story of Ivanhoe Martin, a young man who turns to a life of crime and violence in order to pursue his dreams of becoming a reggae music star.

Key Features

  • Crime drama
  • Reggae music soundtrack
  • Social commentary on poverty and corruption in Jamaica

Pros

  • Cultural significance as one of the first major Jamaican films
  • Memorable reggae music soundtrack featuring Jimmy Cliff's hit song 'The Harder They Come'
  • Powerful portrayal of social issues in Jamaica at the time

Cons

  • Some may find the violence and drug use depicted in the film disturbing

External Links

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Last updated: Mon, Apr 20, 2026, 09:02:23 PM UTC