Hard Times (1975)
Speed: Chaney, I'd like you to meet my old friend Poe. He'll fix up your cuts, bruises - all sorts of good things.
Poe: I have two years of medical school to recommend me.
Chaney: Two years doesn't make a doctor.
Poe: Well, in my third year of studies a small black cloud appeared on campus; I left under it.
Speed: What he's trying to say is that he's a dyed-in-wool hophead.
Poe: I have a weakness for opium.
Chaney: That's a habit that's hard to quit.
Poe: Some are born to fail, others have it thrust upon them. Could I see your hands?
Charles f@ckin Bronson (Chaney) - f@ckin James Coburn (Speedy) -
and, holy f@ck, Batman! Strother mutha f@ckin Martin (Poe)!?
We, my friends, have a trifecta!
For me, this is a helluva, excellent start for this HoF.
I was in eighth grade (1978) when I last saw this on Night at the Movies on Local TV. Everything I enjoyed back then was even more so now.
Adding to that, an appreciation for the camera work. A few scenes, in particular, had a tip of the hat to old-time Noir that I loved. Sadly, I was unable to locate some photographic examples. But, you all may see them when you view it, yourself.
Set during The Depression, penniless, and content to be, Bronson comes across an illegal bare-knuckle fight where Coburn is the top Manager/Money Man.
Coming to an understanding, they head down to New Orleans, to earn cash, playing the odds; Bronson takin out everyone he comes against. Climbing their way to the biggest game with the most dangerous players. Things go, as they should - askew, due to Coburn's gambling addiction digging an ever-widening hole for everyone. While Bronson does what Bronson does d@mn f@cking good at. Talking calmly and kick th' livin sh#t out of anyone fool enough to give a reason.
An exceedingly common premise. BUT, it is played with absolute, sweet finesse by masters, across the board. So, for me, this very familiar song - rocked.
Oh, and how is the fighting in this??
THAT I quite easily found an example of: