Hard Times

press release: USA | 1975 | 35mm | 94 min.

Director: Walter Hill

Cast: Charles Bronson, James Coburn, Strother Martin

Before he made The Warriors and 48 Hrs., established screenwriter Walter Hill (The Getaway) made his directorial debut with this lean and classy action gem set in Depression-era New Orleans. In a rare appearance without his trademark mustache, Bronson plays a drifter who, with the help of a chatty and crafty promoter (Coburn), learns to survive and make money in the world of illegal bare-knuckle brawling. “Hill's thoughtful handling of the moral issue—survival versus friendship—and his subtle, evocative camerawork make this a hundred times better than it should be” (Dave Kehr, Chicago Reader).

After a nearly 16-month hiatus, big screen movies are making their comeback at the UW Cinematheque’s regular venue, 4070 Vilas Hall! Beginning Wednesday June 30, the Cinematheque will commence six weeks of free screenings beginning with Leo McCarey’s Make Way for Tomorrow, a classic tearjerker that was originally scheduled for April 2020. The summer lineup includes canonized comedies, action blockbusters, international thrillers, contemporary gems from Asia, the complete American works of French superstar Jean Gabin, a three-film salute to Charles Bronson in honor of his centennial, and more!

Summer programming will take place on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings and all feature films will be screened from original or archival 35mm prints. Admission, as always, is free and open to the public. Seating will be limited and socially distanced according to current UW-Madison policies. When possible, additional showtimes have been added to accommodate more viewers. All Cinematheque screenings are free and open to the public.