The Rock Movie Classic That Opened Door for Reggae’s Rise
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“THE HARDER THEY COME”
Written and directed
by Perry Henzell
Criterion laser disc ($49.99)
* * * *
Bob Marley contributed most to reggae’s pop-rock presence in the United States, but star Jimmy Cliff and this 1972 film helped open the door for Marley by demonstrating the strong Third World sociopolitical consciousness and musical seductiveness of the Jamaican music. Henzell used the tale of a poor, young reggae singer’s aspirations to explore corruption in high and low places, from the music industry and drug dealers to the police. In a memorable scene, Cliff--playing the singer who is on the lam after shooting some policemen--tries to live out his fading pop-star fantasies by stealing a convertible. Unable to drive, Cliff forces someone at gunpoint to drive the car to a golf course and then takes the wheel and motors around the greens. Not only is this one of the best half-dozen best rock films ever, but the soundtrack is a great introduction to reggae. The disc reflects Criterion’s usual high standards in picture and sound.
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