Ivanhoe Martin arrives in Kingston, Jamaica, looking for work and, after some initial struggles, lands a recording contract as a reggae singer. He records his first song, "The Harder They Come," but after a bitter dispute with a manipulative producer named Hilton, soon finds himself resorting to petty crime in order to pay the bills. He deals marijuana, kills some abusive cops and earns local folk hero status. Meanwhile, his record is topping the charts.
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🔍 Search on JustWatch →The film lives at the rhythm of everyday life — and that's its strength. No cinema about 'big events,' just about how people live, make mistakes, and understand themselves.
Worth watching for the performances and the sincerity. If you're waiting for events — there aren't many. If you're waiting for feeling — it's there.
For those looking for film about people, not events. If you need action — look elsewhere.
Director: Perry Henzell
— MovieFinder Editorial
Best Watched
Viewing atmosphere: When you're in the mood for a conversation about life. With a partner or friend you can trust.
Jimmy Cliff
Ivanhoe "Ivan" Martin
Janet Bartley
Elsa
Carl Bradshaw
Jose
Ras Daniel Hartman
Pedro
Basil Keane
Preacher
Bob Charlton
Hilton
Winston Stona
Detective Ray Jones
Lucia White
Mother
Volair Johnson
Pushcart Boy
Beverly Anderson
Housewife
Audience Score
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